Mr McClelland (Barton) asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs, in writing, on 7 August 2007:
(1)
Is he aware of the ABC’s 7:30 Report story on the role of the Australian Embassy in the recent political unrest in Bangladesh.
(2)
Can he confirm the veracity, or otherwise, of these claims.
Answer
Mr Downer (Mayo—Minister for Foreign Affairs)—The answer to the honourable member’s question is as follows:
(1)
Yes.
(2)
The Australian High Commissioner in Bangladesh has for some time taken part in occasional informal meetings with other Heads of Mission in Dhaka to discuss developments in Bangladesh. This is normal and appropriate practice for a Head of Mission and does not constitute interference in Bangladesh’s internal affairs as claimed on the ABC’s 7:30 Report.