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Australia approves tough anti-terrorism laws
Australiaâs parliament passed a tough new anti-terrorism package on Tuesday amid fears the laws will strip citizens of their civil rights and erode free speech. The legislation, initiated after the July 7 London bombings, allow police to hold suspects without charge for seven days, keep tabs on them with electronic tracking devices and make support for insurgents in countries such as Iraq punishable by up to seven years in jail. Prime Minister John Howardâs conservative government used its one-seat majority in the upper house Senate - the most powerful government mandate held in nearly 25 years - to cut short debate and push through the package on Tuesday. âThese are powers and measures which are needed in the armoury for the fight against terrorism,â Justice Minister Chris Ellison told the Senate. Posted by: Fred 2005-12-07 |
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