VIC; Spy laws plan worries law committee

AAP General News (Australia)
04-13-1999
VIC; Spy laws plan worries law committee

Proposed new laws would give Victoria Police the power to force citizens into helping them
install or monitor surveillance devices on pain of fine or prison.

Under the Surveillance Devices Bill, currently before parliament, people face up to two
years in jail or a $24,000 fine for failing to assist police in carrying out surveillance
warrants if ordered to do so.

The Parliamentary Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee says it's concerned the bill
-- designed to restrict the use of video spy camera, bugs and tracking devices -- would impose
a duty on citizens and intrude on their rights.

The bill also gags people ordered to assist police from seeking advice from friends or
relatives.

The committee has written to Attorney-General JAN WADE expressing concern about the bill.

AAP RTV kmh/ra/msk/lm

KEYWORD: SURVEILLANCE (MELBOURNE)

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