Fed: Howard defends ASIO over handling of Brigitte case

AAP General News (Australia)
02-09-2004
Fed: Howard defends ASIO over handling of Brigitte case

Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD has defended the nation's security service against claims
it failed to act speedily and effectively when warned about the risk posed by terrorist
suspect WILLIE BRIGITTE.

Mr HOWARD says he accepts the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation's evidence
to a parliamentary committee last year that the initial aoer (ASIO) head Dennis Richardson
who told a parliamentary committee last year the initial communication from the French
intelligence service did not express any urgency.

"The importance thing is that …