AAP General News (Australia)
08-23-2007
SA: Andrews says he shares AFP concerns over transcript
ADELAIDE, Aug 23 AAP - Federal Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews says he shares the
concerns of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) over the release of a transcript of an
interview with Mohamed Haneef.
The AFP said it had complained to the Queensland Legal Services Commission over the
release yesterday of the interview between police and the Indian-born doctor on July 13
and 14.
Dr Haneef's lawyers said they had released the transcript, which they say shows the
former terror suspect has nothing to hide, to counter "slander" by federal authorities.
However, the AFP has attacked the release of the transcript, saying attempts by Dr
Haneef's lawyers to use the media to run their case is both unprofessional and inappropriate.
Mr Andrews said the transcript was something the AFP controlled but he agreed with
the criticism of its disclosure.
"They are obviously very concerned about this, they regard the release of that transcript
as irresponsible and unprofessional and that's why thev've taken that stand," the minister
told reporters.
"I share their view.
"This is a balance of public information on one hand and national security on the other.
"I don't think Dr Haneef's lawyers, running around, conducting some sort of public
relations campaign the way they are, is doing anything in terms of the national security
of the country."
Mr Andrews said both he and the AFP were concerned about the release of any information
which could jeopardise ongoing investigations of the British attack both in Australia
and the UK and the prosecutions in the UK.
"Information should not be released which jeopardises those investigations," he said.
Dr Haneef was charged with a terrorism-related offence on July 14, but released when
the Director of Public Prosecutions withdrew the charge on July 27.
AAP tjd/maur/de
KEYWORD: HANEEF ANDREWS
2007 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.
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