Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Manager of Government Business in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

The government does take seriously the requirement to lodge a response with the Human Rights Committee and we are in the process of preparing that. It will be lodged, as I understand, very shortly. As to the proceeds of crime legislation, I am aware that the Supreme Court of New South Wales has granted a restraining order in relation to literary proceeds action being taken against Mr David Hicks. The decision to commence literary proceeds action under the Proceeds of Crime Act was made by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions following an investigation by the Australian Federal Police. The Common­wealth Director of Public Prosecutions makes these decisions and not the government, as may have been assumed by part of that question. As the matter is currently before the courts, it is not appropriate for the Attorney-General to provide any additional information. (Time expired)