FED: Howard backs soldiers use in terrorists situations

AAP General News (Australia)
08-22-2000
FED: Howard backs soldiers use in terrorists situations

Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD has defended his government's decision to use defence personnel
instead of police to handle terrorists situations in Australia .

Mr HOWARD says Australian troops have demonstrated recently their training allowed
them to handle difficult civil situations.

The Prime Minister told Brisbane radio 4BC the troops were put to the test in East Timor.

Mr HOWARD says legislation to allow soldiers to help with domestic anti-terrorist work
was strongly supported by the Labor opposition in parliament.

He says the legislation is not designed to overturn any conventions and is designed
in co-operation with the state police forces.

Mr HOWARD says soldiers have had the special training and equipment to handle terrorists.

AAP RTV geb/sc/rsm

KEYWORD: HOWARD SOLDIERS (BRISBANE)

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