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Parkin Arrest - Portent of Terror Laws to Come
“The arrest of Scott Parkin in Melbourne should make those interested in freedom of expression genuinely wary of the Government’s anti-terror laws,” said Simeon Beckett, President of Australian Lawyers for Human Rights.
“Mr Parkin has not been charged or convicted of any offence. All we know is that ASIO wanted to interview him and he declined.
“The Attorney-General, Phillip Ruddock, says that a decision to revoke his visa and deport him was made on the basis of a ‘security assessment’ but he will not provide any more details.
“The Attorney’s silence has set off speculation about what if any threat Mr Parkin might be to Australia.
“All we know is that the man appears to be an anti-globalisation and peace activist involved in demonstrations and briefing of peace groups in Australia.
“Whether you agree with his politics or not surely he should be able to state his opinion in the exercise of his fundamental right to freedom of expression.
“We know that the ASIO Legislation prohibits public discussion of the use of certain ASIO powers.
“The Attorney’s refusal to divulge the basis upon which Parkin is being detained and deported means that we do not know and cannot properly discuss the legitimacy of the Government’s action.
“The impression is that the Government is deporting a man who does not agree with its political views. "Australians would be justifiably suspicious of more terror laws that give intelligence bodies powers which can be exercised without proper public accountability, including through the media," said Simeon Beckett
Contact Simeon Beckett, President ALHR, Mobile 0412 008 039 This page last updated 4th May 2004 |
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