It has come to our knowledge that Ms Schapelle Leigh Corby, an Australian citizen, has been recently charged with drug smuggling, before the same court used for the trial of the Bali bombers, some of whom to the delight of the victims and their family members, including Australians, have been handed capital punishment.

As in all democratic countries, the government cannot interfere with legal proceedings or in the courts whose independence is enshrined in the law.

Trial by the press and insisting on hearsay evidence will only weaken Ms Corby's case. We hence should let the court take its course naturally.

Canberra, 23 March 2005