Fed: Howard says Indon relationship still strong

AAP General News (Australia)
08-15-2006
Fed: Howard says Indon relationship still strong

JOHN HOWARD's refused to be drawn on comments from an Indonesian politician that he
gave up too easily on plans to toughen Australia's migration laws.

THEO SUMBAWANGA has called on the Indonesian government to encourage Mr HOWARD to try
again .. after his first effort was defeated by a government backbench revolt.

But Mr HOWARD has told Southern Cross Radio Mr SUMBAWANGA doesn't speak for the Indonesian
government.

He says despite Indonesia's desire for the changes .. it will not greatly harm relations
between the two nations.







The changes the PM wanted would've seen all illegal refugees forced into offshore processing
centres.

Yesterday he withdrew the bill when he realised he didn't have the numbers to pass it.

AAP RTV pv/sb/jmm/bart

KEYWORD: MIGRATION HOWARD (CANBERRA)

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