Benjamin Gilman: “H. Res. 429 places the House on record regarding our concerns over the participation of the extremist Freedom Party, the…”

“H. Res. 429 places the House on record regarding our concerns over the participation of the extremist Freedom Party, the FPO, in the government of Austria that was recently formed. The former leader and founder of the FPO, Joerg Haider has propelled the FPO into the mainstream of Austrian politics by appealing to some of the frustrations of Austria's people. He has also capitalized on a large measure of dissatisfaction with the political status quo that was represented by Austria's traditional political establishment among the Austrian electorate. Nevertheless, I join with the gentleman from California, Mr. Lantos and my colleagues in condemning many of the statements that Joerg Haider has made, his demagogic attempts to stir up resentment of Austria's large immigrant community, and his apparent sympathies for Austria's tragic Nazi past. This measure is balanced. It is aimed at the government of Austria and not at the people of Austria with many of whom I have enjoyed a close and enduring friendship.”