QLD:Defence spending not an issue: veterans

AAP General News (Australia)
08-18-2010
QLD:Defence spending not an issue: veterans

Vietnam veterans say they're pleased the issue of spending on defence and veteran support
hasn't become a political football in the federal election campaign.

Around 300 veterans of the war in Vietnam marched through Brisbane's CBD today before
the annual service commemorating the Battle of Long Tan .. the largest single conflict
in which Australians were involved in the Vietnam War.

Guest speaker FRANK BENFIELD .. who served in Vietnam in 1970 and 1971 .. says Australia
currently spends 26 billion dollars a year on defence and 12 billion on veterans.

Mr BENFIELD says the absence of debate on the issue during the election campaign shows
the Australian public recognises the importance of such spending.

AAP RTV stg/pjo/crh

KEYWORD: VIETNAM QLD (BRISBANE)

� 2010 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.