sharkfin: I'll repost something from another thread.

I wrote:

It's amazing that in this post-9/11 world, with this whole so-called "War on Terror", that both the U.S. and Australian (and British too I guess) governments have managed to get their (and other) populaces so incredibly offside with what should actually work very much in their favour. I'm certainly no fan of the left, but I think that Bush will be regarded as in their handful of worst (not just ineffective) presidents, and that Howard will ultimately be remembered for much longer for things like this than anything else. Obviously, it goes without saying that people on one side of politics don't like the opposition, but no one really hates any previous prime ministers. Not so with this one.

The irony in all this is that I should be the Liberal Party's biggest fan. I'm right wing on economic issues, and I'm also anti-welfare, pro-Work Choices, etc. I'm sure you can paint the rest of the picture yourself.

However, I'm (and I'm sure I'm not alone) so disgusted over the way this government has handled issues like this, the Iraq War, the general so-called War on Terror, refugees, etc. that I couldn't even begin to offer any support for Howard and his ratbags even if I wanted to (because I have major issues with the system of government we have, but that's another issue). When the Liberal Party turns off people who describe themselves as classical liberals, you know there is something really, really wrong with it.

Bronco
Perhaps the Government could provide David and his family a one way ticket to somewhere David is happier. After all poor David does not seem like he was too happy here. Its nice to keep all familes together and happy- dont you think.
Terry might even get a father of the years award over there.
I feel may Aussies would chip in for the air tickets if the Gov wont pay.
We could all go to the air port and wave and say.
Tootle Pip!

Yes Afghanistan was a United Nations invasion (NATO)
David Hicks was handed over to the Amaricans because they had ready money and a ready prison. We Australia did not have any legislation to hold him. Guatanamo Bay is convenient because United Nations cannot touch them and America has the right of Veto. So all ended well and all will be forgotten when David hicks is released. John Howard did a very good job in allowing him to be put in soliatary confinement for six years that was an excellent idea to get him to admit that he was guilty. Now David Hicks is now having a life of leisure on our expense.