Scott Morrison (Cook, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm pleased to announce that Mr Alek Sigley has been today released from detention in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Alex is safe and well. Swedish authorities advised the Australian government that they met with senior officials from the DPRK yesterday and raised the issue of Alek's disappearance on Australia's behalf. Early this morning we were advised that the DPRK had released Alek Sigley from detention and he has now safely left the country. I can confirm he has arrived safely.

On behalf of the Australian government, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the Swedish authorities for their invaluable assistance in securing Alek's prompt release. This outcome demonstrates the value of the discreet, behind-the-scenes work of officials in resolving complex and sensitive consular cases in close partnership with other governments. I am sure we all could not be more pleased that we not only know where Alek is but we know he is safe.

Anthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I join with the Prime Minister in welcoming this announcement. I thank him for the private discussion that we had yesterday, discreetly talking about this very issue. On behalf of Labor also, I thank the Swedish authorities for their assistance. This is indeed good news for Alek and his family, and good news for our nation.