George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Yes, Senator Mason, I can. The government is deeply concerned at reports that Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran are being transferred by Indonesian authorities in preparation for their execution. Unfortunately, it does look as if the Indonesian position is hardening, which is obviously distressing news.

The Australian government maintains and has long maintained, on both sides of politics, strong, principled opposition to the death penalty. It is, as well, the government's very strong view that it is unacceptable for any steps to be taken to prepare for executions while any legal avenues remain open, as they do. Lawyers for the two men have stated that they are lodging a further appeal in the state administrative court.

The government asks President Widodo to show mercy and forgiveness to these two men. It is clear that Andrew and Myuran are reformed men who are making a positive difference to the lives of their fellow prisoners and, in doing so, are making a real contribution to Indonesia. We make this plea to President Widodo as a forgiving man to see the remarkable difference these two young Australians have made to many Indonesians in prison.

Mr President, mercy knows no borders and it has just as big a place in Indonesian concepts of justice as it does here in Australia. In seeking mercy for these two young men, Australia is only doing what Indonesia itself does for its citizens on death row overseas. For as long as there is still hope, the government will do everything we possibly can to persuade Indonesia to change course and agree to a permanent stay of execution.