Crack-down on anti-Asian terror campaigns

21/3/93

Any resurgence of anti-Asian terror campaigns would be stamped on by the full force of the law, Multicultural Affairs Minister Graham Kierath warned today.

"The Coalition Government will not tolerate any repetition of the nazi-style racist attacks that terrorised Perth's Asian community five years ago," Mr Kierath said.

"Whatever resources the law needs to prevent that happening, they will have."

Mr Kierath said he was alarmed at similarities between recent attacks on Asian businesses and those perpetrated by the Australian Nationalists' Movement in 1988.

"Whether the ANM is responsible or whether a new gang of nazi-inspired racists has been activated is irrelevant," he said.

"What has happened recently is abhorrent to all decent Australians and must be halted by the full force of the law."

Mr Kierath said anyone who could help police track down those responsible for recent acts of vandalism on Chinese restaurants in Greenwood and Sorrento should come forward.

"It may be that some people are fearful of reprisals, but if these thugs are not stopped now, someone is sure to be killed or seriously injured before long," the Minister said.

Media contact: Barry Thornton 481 2133