Boat People Bill To Be Debated

A bill giving powers to detain boat people and deter people smugglers will be debated in Parliament this afternoon.

The Immigration Amendment Bill will receive its first reading after Question Time.

The bill defines a ``mass arrival group’’ and allows them to be detained for an initial period of six months and then longer while claims for refugee status are considered.

It also places limitations on legal avenues for appeal and judicial review.

The House rises at 6pm but should get time to start consideration of the second reading of the Commerce Commission (International Co-operation, and Fees) Bill.

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