Prebble Seeks Urgent Question on Suspected Terrorists in NZ Jail

Thursday, October 4 2001

Richard Prebble

Press Releases -- Justice, Law & Order

ACT leader Richard Prebble is seeking to ask the Prime Minister an urgent question in Parliament today regarding Australian media reports that two men being held in Paremoremo Prison are believed by police to be commanders in the Taleban militia.

"These reports, which are now freely available on the internet and are circulating like wild fire, will cause considerable public concern," Mr Prebble said.

"I have no information to substantiate the statements. I've asked the question because I believe the Prime Minister has a duty to inform the public of the facts.

"What the Australian reports show is that the courts need to carefully consider whether they should grant total suppression. Such suppression orders just invite speculation, and as overseas websites are not covered by the orders, it can lead to extraordinary rumours.

"I'm frankly sceptical that these reports are accurate but now they're out in public the Prime Minister needs to make a statement," Mr Prebble said.

ENDS

For more information visit ACT online at http://www.act.org.nz or contact the ACT Parliamentary Office at act@parliament.govt.nz.

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