EXTRADITION REFUSAL 31 May 04

[Clark, Allen (M. Organ, MP)]

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JUSTICE MINISTER MUST COME CLEAN OVER EXTRADITION REFUSAL

Justice Minister Chris Ellison must now explain why he has rejected a
Hong Kong government request for the extradition of two Australians in
connection with an alleged housing construction scam, Cunningham MP
Michael Organ said today.

"I have already made three approaches to Senator Ellison's office for a
briefing on this matter after a constituent who works in Hong Kong drew
my attention to the damage being done to Australia's reputation by the
Justice Minister's refusal to return Carl Voigt and David Roger Hendry
to the Hong Kong authorities despite the extradition request being
approved by Australian courts", Mr. Organ said.

"My approaches to the Minister haven't had the courtesy of an
acknowledgement, and I have therefore written to him again today
re-iterating my request for a briefing."

"It is clear from press reports today that Minister Ellison's action,
and his refusal to explain his reasons, is prompting accusations of
racism, and angering the Hong Kong government with which Australia has
an agreement to surrender fugitive offenders."

"If Senator Ellison has compelling reasons to reject a lawful
extradition request he should come clean with the Australian people and
explain them", Mr. Organ said.

More from:
Michael Organ MP 02 6277 4366, 0439 442 550
Allen Clark (Media Adviser) 0439 464 439
www.michaelorgan.org.au



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