Spycatcher Delighted at SIS Settlement. "But There's More to Come".

Media Release. 26 August 1999

The man who pursued and caught the SIS agents during an illegal break-in to his friend's home in July 1996 is delighted that a settlement has been reached in the case. However, University of Canterbury lecturer, David Small, says that just as one legal episode ends another is about to begin.

Dr Small announced that he is about to file for a judicial review of the decision to issue a warrant to search his house for bomb-making equipment just days after he thwarted the SIS break-in.

He is convinced that he was targeted because of SIS agents wanting to "get him back" for catching them. Inquiries directed to the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, the Police Complaints Authority and the Prime Minister's Office have resulted in no plausible explanation for the events. In the wake of the Court of Appeal ruling, Dr Small made one final approach to the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security to review his report on the original complaint. Last week, this was declined.

"I have gone to extraordinary lengths to avoid litigation in this matter", said Dr Small, "but I am simply not prepared to tolerate stone-walling tactics any longer. Clearly, the government has learnt nothing from Aziz's case and is willing to squander more tax-payer dollars to try to cover up this sordid affair."

Dr Small said that his case would bring into public view the extent to which senior members of the Police assisted the SIS not only in carrying out and covering up illegal activities, but also in seeking retribution against those who challenged them.

"I don't expect a medal or reward for what I did", said Dr Small. "But neither do I expect to be repaid by having my home invaded".

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For comment, phone David Small on 364-2268 or (025) 208-4160. Dr Small will be meeting Mr Choudry in Christchurch off an Ansett flight from Auckland at around 4.30pm on Friday 27 August. They are both involved in organising the launch of Reclaiming the Future, the new book by Professor Jane Kelsey at the Trade Union Centre in Armagh Street at 7pm that evening.

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