Senate debates

Wednesday, 20 June 2007

MR Alan Johnston

3:30 pm

Photo of Kerry NettleKerry Nettle (NSW, Australian Greens) Share this | | Hansard source

I move the motion standing in my name and thank the Senate for its anticipated support:

That the Senate—
(a)
notes that:
(i)
the respected British Broadcasting Corporation journalist Mr Alan Johnston was abducted whilst on assignment in the Gaza Strip more than 3 months ago and his whereabouts remains unknown,
(ii)
the Army of Islam group has claimed responsibility for that abduction, and
(iii)
the major Palestinian factions and the Palestinian authority have condemned the abduction;
(b)
expresses its:
(i)
concern at the plight of Mr Johnston and the effect of the kidnapping on his family, friends and colleagues, and
(ii)
unreserved condemnation of the taking of hostages for political purposes; and
(c)
calls for Mr Johnston’s immediate and unconditional release.

Question agreed to.