Hicks release from control orders welcomed by Greens

Media Release | Spokesperson Scott Ludlam
Thursday 20th November 2008, 12:00am

The Australian Federal Police decision to discontinue its anti-terrorism control orders over David Hicks has been welcomed by Australian Greens Attorney General Spokesperson, Senator Scott Ludlam.

"The move from the AFP to discontinue their heavy handed treatment of David Hicks is an acknowledgement that public sentiment is spot on: Australia is a country which values human rights," Senator Ludlam said.

"Finally, David Hicks is being treated with the dignity, and respect of privacy that everyone has a right to."

"Control orders are one example of the draconian and extreme aspects of the anti-terrorism laws the Howard government rammed through the Senate after 2001 - and are yet to be reviewed by the Rudd Government."

Last week the Greens supported a Bill initiated by Liberal backbencher Petro Georgio to review the forty pieces of anti-terrorism legislation. The government voted against the measure.

Senator Ludlam has also questioned the legitimacy of David Hicks' initial sentence.

For more information or media enquiries please call Robert Simms on 0417 174 302 or Marie Bout on 0415 507 763.

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