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World: A battle over the Queen: After a highly charged campaign, Australians prepare to vote on getting rid of the monarch as head of state and switching to a republic; EAN HIGGINS in SYDNEY; Maclean's; ; ; Nov 08, 1999; 34;




It is 2005, and Australia is hosting a summit of Asia-Pacific leaders. The president proudly opens proceedings heralding Australia's seamless transition from constitutional monarchy to republic. It is, she declares, a triumph of multicultural endeavour with a stable parliamentary democracy, a booming economy, a self-confident people and increasing influence in regional and world affairs.That's scenario 1. In scenario 2, Australia is in political and economic turmoil. Its attempt to stay in the Commonwealth failed when Malaysia blocked Australia's seemingly routine request to continue membership after it became a republic. A close election has left both the prime minister and leader of the Opposition demanding appointment by the preside...