There are some bleeding hearts out there who say this is "an election issue". Even though the opposition are standing behind Howard's decision!!
It's good to see that the Government are doing what (according to a Ten television poll) 90% of Australians who voted WANT them to do. Because we are sick of seeing our money spent this way, when there are many disadvantaged Australians who need it, on these ungrateful people who abuse our system.
For those of us who waited years to migrate here legally it's good to see that the immigration people are taking a firm stand and that it isn't just us White Europeans who have to wait our turn (and wait, and wait, and wait) and prove ourselves worthy.
Apparently these people have been happily waiting for their boats in Indonesia, NOT being persecuted, AT AUSTRALIAN TAXPAYERS EXPENSE! Then their leaky boat starts to sink, so the nice Norwegian guy goes to help, as he should; and instead of being thanked he is threatened. The "asylum seekers" are behaving like pirates. They have caused this situation, not Australia, not Norway, and if it takes the SAS to get rid of them then go for it.
I'd say if they are involved then there may be some threat to national security. The Norwegian captain has ignored directives not to enter Australian waters. Our troops are there to defend our country.
I say if the bleeding hearts want these people to be allowed in, they should be willing to house and feed them themselves for the next few years.
[ 29 August 2001: Message edited by: Charlie Foxtrot India ]