Christmas 2003 Message From Mark Latham

The Leader of the Federal Opposition, Mark Latham, has released this message to Australians at Christmas.

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This really is the best time of the year: a chance to share the Christmas spirit with loved ones and our fellow citizens.

I wish all Australians a happy and holy Christmas and a great time with their families over the holiday period. Please drive safe, stay safe and enjoy a fulfilling 2004.

At this time of the year we should also remember those Australians who will spend Christmas alone or in poverty. Please support our great charities and voluntary organisations who do so much to bring some Christmas cheer and care to the disadvantaged.

Our thoughts are also with our brave Australian troops stationed overseas and the families who will miss them so much at this time of the year. Congratulations on your work and please make a safe return home as quickly as possible.

This Christmas I'll be reading lots of story books to my little boys and I know other parents will do the same. Lots of wonderful presents are exchanged on Christmas Day but please remember that the greatest gift we can give our children, all year round, is reading aloud.

On behalf of my wife Janine and our two sons, I wish all Australians a great Christmas and successful New Year.