| Senator Joe Ludwig Cabinet Secretary Special Minister of State |
Robert McClelland MP Attorney-General |
19/2009
15 June 2009
Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, and Special Minister of State, Senator Joe Ludwig, today met with the United Kingdom’s Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation, Lord Carlile of Berriew QC.
Ministers discussed the ongoing reform of counter-terrorism legislation, the experience of the United Kingdom in countering violent extremism, and Australia’s plan to introduce a National Security Legislation Monitor.
“I welcome the opportunity to discuss the United Kingdom’s approach on these matters with Lord Carlile, as we are continually seeking to improve the operation and effectiveness of our legislation,” Mr McClelland said.
The Government will soon move to implement the recommendations of recent reviews of counter-terrorism legislation, which includes measures to establish a National Security Legislation Monitor to review the practical operation of counter-terrorism legislation on an annual basis.
These measures will be designed to give the Australian community confidence that our law enforcement and security agencies have the tools they need to fight terrorism, while ensuring laws and powers are balanced by appropriate safeguards.
“Lord Carlile has a great deal of experience in the United Kingdom’s response to the ongoing terrorist threat, and I particularly welcome his comments on the operation of the UK Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation,” Senator Ludwig said.
During his visit Lord Carlile will be meeting with a number of Commonwealth and State officials as well as representatives of academic institutions and community groups. He will also deliver a lecture at the Australian National University on the role of the Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation in the United Kingdom.
| Media Contacts: | Website: |
|---|---|
Senator Ludwig's Office - Sarah Cosson - 0423 823 843 Attorney-General's Office - Adam Siddique - 0407 473 630 |
www.cabinetsecretary.gov.au www.smos.gov.au |