I have noted the concerns of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in relation to the Australian Government's policy of detaining asylum seekers and more especially in relation to prolonged detentions and the detention of minors. I am conscious that the policy guidelines of the UNHCR's executive committee, of which Australia is a member, state that the detention of asylum seekers, especially children, is inherently undesirable. I call upon the Government of Australia to act upon the recommendations of the UNHCR.
I would urge all states to uphold their obligations under international covenants to which they are party, including the UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.