On this day in 1983, The Canberra Times reported that "the Hawke had landed" as Prime Minister Bob Hawke arrived back in Canberra after his first overseas visit as PM.
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He arrived in Canberra at the Fairbairn RAAF base at 5.35pm on June 21 on a VIP 707.
While in Paris, Prime Minister Hawke announced Australia would suspend all uranium shipments in France.
This was to protest France's nuclear testing program in the Pacific.
Upon arrival Mr Hawke saw his deputy PM Lionel Bowen and spoke other diplomats.
Mr Hawke refused to speak to reporters upon his arrival.
in addition to Mr Hawke's announcement, the Times reported that foreign affairs minister Bill Hayden reached a 'stalemate' with French presidential envoy Regis Debray, over the South Pacific nuclear testing.
Mr Hawke was due to speak with Mr Debray about the nuclear testing on this day.
Between 1960 and 1996 France ran 210 nuclear tests in the South Pacific.
The full effects of these tests on the environment and the health of Pacific Islanders are not known to this day.
Julia Kanapathippillai
I like writing fascinating stories about Canberra. If you have a tip or a story email julia.k@austcommunitymedia.com.au
I like writing fascinating stories about Canberra. If you have a tip or a story email julia.k@austcommunitymedia.com.au
