Police Pluck Aussie Politicos from Harm's Way on Australia Day
Created: 2012-01-27:05.42
Category: World > Asia Pacific
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An aboriginal protest in Canberra outside a restaurant where Prime Minister Julia Gillard and opposition leader Tony Abbott were attending an Australia Day ceremony.
As the demonstration escalates, security tells Gillard that she may be in danger.
[Unidentified Security Official]:
"We feel that the situation is deteriorating and can't stay. Too much danger."
[Julia Gillard, Australian Prime Minister]:
"What about Mr Abbott? Where have we got him? We'd better help him through too, hadn't we?"
Gillard then relayed the message to Abbott.
[Tony Abbott, Opposition Leader]:
"I think it would be very easy for that glass to be smashed. So, would they like us to go straight away?"
[Julia Gillard, Australian Prime Minister]:
"We'll just pull together."
What ensues is a panicked escape.
The Prime Minister's security team rush her and Abbott into a waiting car, and they make their getaway.
One protester picked up a memento from the incident - Gillard's shoe - which slipped off during her escape.
Activists were holding a demonstration to celebrate the anniversary of the unofficial aboriginal tent embassy.
Abbott's calls for it to be disbanded prompted the protests.
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