Fed: Media groups warn ASIO bill will gag the press

AAP General News (Australia)
12-04-2003
Fed: Media groups warn ASIO bill will gag the press

Media groups are warning that proposed ASIO laws pose a grave threat to democracy by
gagging the press.

The ASIO Legislation Amendment Bill 2003, currently before the Senate, intends to boost
interrogation powers for the intelligence agency.

Labor has indicated it will support the new powers.

Fairfax, News Limited, SBS, the ABC, the Australian Press Council and Commercial Radio
Australia have urged the Senate not to pass the bills until several issues are resolved.

In a letter to Attorney-General PHILIP RUDDOCK the media groups say, under the proposed
amendments, individuals could face five-year jail terms for reporting details of warrants
issued for the investigation of terrorism.

It says this could potentially put a stop to any media coverage of ASIO investigations
of terrorism in Australia.

Under the bill being considered by parliament, the disclosure of so-called operational
information is prohibited.

AAP RTV sal/sb/wz/rh/lma

KEYWORD: ASIO MEDIA (CANBERRA)

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