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Monday, 10 October 2005
Page: 166


Mr Melham asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs, in writing, on 17 August 2005:

On how many occasions since September 2001 has his department made representations to any foreign government concerning the suspected torture of persons when the alleged torture has been associated with obtaining intelligence or security information subsequently provided to Australia by that foreign government.


Mr Downer (Minister for Foreign Affairs) —The answer to the honourable member’s question is as follows:

The Australian Government rejects and strongly condemns the use of torture in any circumstances. The Government is a strong supporter (and traditional co-sponsor) each year of a resolution at the United Nations Commission on Human Rights condemning all forms of torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment. In addition, in its dealings with foreign Governments, the Australian Government vigorously opposes and condemns specific instances of torture of which it becomes aware.

The Australian Government does not comment on intelligence matters.