SA: Baxter fires won't sway government policy: Downer
ADELAIDE, Dec 29 AAP - Asylum seekers who set fire to the Baxter detention centre wouldface the full force of the law, the federal government said today.
Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said the overnight arson attacks by detainees atthe centre in South Australia's north would not alter the government's refugee policy.
"If this is a result of an act of sabotage, then I think it will appall the Australianpeople," Mr Downer told reporters.
"It's not going to change the government's policy.
"If this is a deliberate act of sabotage, then those who are responsible for it shouldface the full force of the law.
"People who go around burning public property, if that is what has happened in thiscase, will have to face the full force of the law."
The Immigration Department said at least five separate fires were lit inside a compoundat the Baxter centre about midnight (CDT).
The blazes destroyed 64 of 79 rooms and caused an estimated $2 million damage.
AAP sl/apm/sb
KEYWORD: DETENTION FIRE DOWNER
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