Claire Higgins writes in The Conversation (17.5.16) about the intractable nature of asylum seeker policy, and how it might be better approached during this federal election campaign. It seems, however, that the Immigration Minister is determined to have the conversation his way.
‘Debates on Australia’s policies toward asylum seekers have made an early appearance in the 2016 election campaign. Several current and retiring Labor MPs, as well as some candidates, have spoken out against the party’s support for offshore processing and turning back asylum-seeker boats.
‘Both major parties support offshore processing and boat turnbacks. But public opinion is not so clear-cut. And nor are the policy choices.’
- Changing the conversation can lead to a better way on asylum seekers »
- Election 2016: Qld Premier slams Dutton’s ‘illiterate’ asylum seeker comment »
- Election 2016: Malcolm Turnbull backs ‘outstanding’ Peter Dutton after refugee comments »
- Pushing the wrong buttons »
- Return to sender: Labor vows no policy change as second boat arrives »