Mr Jenkins asked the Minister representing the Minister for Justice and Customs, upon notice, on 6 February 2003:

(1) Is the Minister aware of allegations against Mr Francis James Muller, a US citizen, and Thailand companies named Global Option Co. and Foreign Currency International, which are involved in foreign exchange speculation.

(2) Is the Minister aware that Australian citizens have lost money after being approached by Global Option Co or Foreign Currency International to be involved in foreign money exchanges.

(3) When did the Minister first become aware of these allegations.

(4) What action did the Minister take.

(5) What action did the Australian Federal Police take.

(6) Has the Minister informed the Thai Government of the allegations; if so, (a) what steps were taken and (b) what was the outcome.

(7) What is the estimated number of Australians that have been affected by this scam.

Mr Williams (Attorney-General) —The Minister for Justice and Customs has provided the following answer to the honourable member's question:

(1) The AFP has no records related to Francis James Muller, a US citizen.

(2) The AFP is not aware of allegations regarding a company specifically named Global Option Co.

(3) The AFP is not aware of allegations regarding a company specifically named Foreign Currency International.

(4) The AFP is not aware of Australian citizens losing money after being approached by Global Option Co or Foreign Currency International

(5) N/A

(6) N/A

(7) N/A.