[Greens-Media] New censorship laws threaten freedom of speech

[Bolwell, Kristian (Sen K. Nettle)]

New censorship laws threaten freedom of speech

New censorship laws threaten freedom of speech and will do nothing to
address the threat of terrorism, Greens Senator Nettle said today, 

The Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Amendment
(Terrorist Material) Bill 2007, which is due for debate in the Senate
today, bans any books, films or computer games that advocate terrorist
acts.

"These changes to censorship laws have been rejected by the States and
now the Howard government is trying to ram them through in the dying
days of their government."

"The definition of advocating terrorism contained in this bill is so
broad that many feature films or computer games could easily fall within
the net of the censorship laws."

"Those supporting freedom for West Papua or Kurdish independence could
also be captured by these laws."

"The fact that the government has gone to great lengths to try and carve
out exemptions for entertainment and academic work shows that it knows
the definition is highly subjective and open to abuse."

"Even the Classification Review Board which manages the censorship laws
are concerned about the bill"

"A majority of Iraqis support attacks on Coalition forces in Iraq. This
bill could make any reporting of their views in Australia illegal."

"There is no need for this bill and it could make things worse. The few
publications that do promote Islamic terrorism in Australia will be
driven underground."

"The best antidote to dangerous ideas is the light of day and public
debate not suppression."

"The Law Council of Australia, HREOC and a range of community and legal
organisations have opposed the bill but the government is persisting. It
needs to stop being pig headed and listen to the community."

"This bill should not pass."

For more information: Kristian Bolwell 0411 638 320