The supposed Labor "backflip" is no cave-in but the honouring of a promise to implement whatever the Huston recommended to break the impasse whether agreeable ot Labor or not. Claims caved-in to "offshore processing" are stupid when for the last couple of years that's what it sought through the Malaysian swap. Also, the Huston report has a bob each way on the use of force. See Recommendation 19 at http://expertpanelonasylumseekers.dpmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/report/expert_panel_on_asylum_seekers_summary_of_recommendations.pdf. Whether the pre-conditions for the use of force can ever be met is a moot point and it is no barrier anyway when we see how maritime law is easily used to outflank and compromise our navy. Furthermore, simply guiding the boats in then transferring occupants offshore is more sensible and humane than forceful interdiction at sea.

Nauru and Manus (or Malaysia) themselves will do little until the point is enforced that a stay at these places will last as long as a stay in any other refugee camp around the world while awaiting resettlement. This is the next big fight as Sarah H-Y is now demonstrating in all her myopic glory. Can't wait for the Greens to be smashed by the electorate for sheer dumbness.

TPVs encourage family groups to make the journey. Allowing family reunion only through the same channels as regular immigrants, as Huston recommends, is the right step.

Good to see SM still on mantra. Bleat on.

LF,

"The supposed Labor "backflip" is no cave-in"

I believe that you believe it. I just can't find anyone personally or in the news that agrees with you.

The latest "Essential report" survey shows clearly that the voters overwhelmingly favour the coalition's policies in this area.

Ultimately a line will have to be drawn in the sand.
Let the Indonesions answer any sos calls. If the boat is seaworthy then
they can be prosecuted by Indonesia for false emergcy call. Here it is
something like 20 years. In Indonesia it might well be execution.

In any case when they arrive at Christmas Island refuse them a landing
and tell them, we are full up, go away.
That will stop the boats very quickly.

What is going to happen if it is full now ? Do they sleep on the beach ?

Banjo: "Gillard was the cause of the illegals problem, and this SMH commentater now praises her for 'problem solving'."

Probably one of the main reasons why Fairfax is failing - its Latte Left columnists and editors are completely out of step with reality. The Australian public have tuned out.