News[JURIST] The Australian government has backed away from proposals to strip citizenship from those convicted of terrorism offenses, instead suggesting that it may be more effective to monitor them. Australian Prime Minister John Howard [official profile] originally supported removing citizenship of those breaking proposed anti-terror laws. Citizenship Minister John Cobb [official website] said, however, that those stripped of citizenship would be more difficult to monitor and could present a threat to the country. Cobb also said such a provision would present difficulties if those born in Australia had their citizenship revoked. The proposed legislation has set off debate in the country over law enforcement and the need for increased powers to combat terrorism. Several states have also proposed legislation that would increase authorities for police, while civil rights groups have opposed the measures. The Australian has more.
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