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THE HON ALEXANDER DOWNER MP, MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS THE HON PHILIP RUDDOCK MP, ATTORNEY GENERAL

20 May 2007

DAVID HICKS IS TRANSFERRED TO AUSTRALIA UNDER THE INTERNATIONAL TRANSFER OF PRISONER’S SCHEME

David Hicks was returned to Australia today following his transfer from Guantanamo Bay under the international transfer of prisoners scheme.

Mr Hicks was flown back into Australia on board a Government-chartered aircraft which arrived in Adelaide this morning.

Mr Hicks is now in the custody of South Australian Correctional Services. He has been transported to Yatala Labour Prison, where he will serve out his custodial sentence.

Mr Hicks was sentenced by a military commission to 7 years imprisonment after pleading guilty to the charge of providing material support for terrorism. All but 9 months of this sentence was suspended.

Law enforcement and security agencies are working together to determine appropriate security arrangements. Consistent with longstanding practice, the Government does not intend to detail these measures, but the community should be assured that public safety is the primary concern.

Media Contacts: Malcolm Cole (Mr Downer’s Office) 02 6277 7500 Steve Ingram (Mr Ruddock’s Office) 0419 278715