POLICE — OPTIONAL PROTOCOL TO THE CONVENTION AGAINST TORTURE

2992. Hon Alison Xamon to the minister representing the Minister for Police:

I refer to Australia’s obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT), and I ask:

(a)  will powers to visit and inspect all police lockups be granted to the Inspector of Custodial Services;

(b)  if yes to (a):

(i)  when; and

(ii)  by what mechanism; and

(c)  if no to (a), why not?

Hon Stephen Dawson replied:

(a)–(c) The Hon. Member may wish to redirect this question to the Minister for Corrective Services who is responsible for the administration of the Inspector of Custodial Services Act 2003.