5 September 2008
EXTENSION OF TIME FOR CLARKE INQUIRY
I have today agreed to a request by the Honourable John Clarke QC for an extension of the reporting date for the Clarke Inquiry into the case of Dr Mohamed Haneef until 14 November 2008.
By letter dated 3 September 2008, Mr Clarke has indicated that he requires additional time to complete his enquiries and provide his report. This arises from earlier delays caused by the need to resolve access to information that is security classified or sensitive to imminent criminal trials in the United Kingdom.
The Clarke Inquiry is an important measure to ensure public confidence in Australia’s counter-terrorism arrangements. At the outset, Mr Clarke indicated he would conduct the Inquiry in a way which ensures the protection of national security information, ongoing investigations and upcoming overseas trials.
The Government accepts that the extension requested by Mr Clarke is appropriate to enable Mr Clarke to complete his important work.
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