GOVERNMENT HOUSE, New Zealand

17 April 2001

Jason Paul Troup
114 Heretaunga Street East
HASTINGS

Dear Mr. Troup

Your letter of 21 March addressed to The Queen concerning your proposed new flag of New Zealand has been sent to Government House in Wellington. It is the normal practice for Buckingham Palace to refer correspondence from New Zealand to Her Majesty’s representative, the Governor General.

Dame Silvia Cartwright has asked me to reply to your letter. Her Excellency has noted your arguments in favour of New Zealand adopting a new flag and she has seen your design. It would not be appropriate for her, as Governor-General, to become involved in a debate on the question of changing the flag. This is a matter, ultimately, for the New Zealand Parliament and the New Zealand people to decide. I would therefore recommend that you submit your proposal to the Cabinet Minister responsible for the use of flags and emblems, the Minister of Internal Affairs, the Hon George Hawkins, and/or your local member of parliament.

Yours Sincerely

HUGO JUDD

Official Secretary