Fed: Boat people making demands, as more boats roll in

AAP General News (Australia)
12-10-1999
Fed: Boat people making demands, as more boats roll in

Another surge of illegal immigrants has arrived on Australian shores, dashing the Federal
Government's hopes that the flow of asylum seekers is slowing.

While Mr RUDDOCK told reporters that there are signs the flow of boat people is drying
up, another vessel carrying illegal immigrants arrived by navy escort into Ashmore Reef.

Customs Minister AMANDA VANSTONE says the Indonesian fishing vessel may be carrying
seven suspected illegal immigrants and two crew.

Navy vessel HMAS Whyalla has been shadowing it for two days.

December arrivals stand at more than 150 people.

The new arrivals come as boat people housed in detention centres are demanding satellite
television and Internet access.

Immigration Minister PHILIP RUDDOCK says the illegal arrivals want to watch TV from
their home country and e-mail overseas however he said the goverment won't be bowing to
the demands.

AAP RTV daw/mfh/tso/jn/dmc/rt

KEYWORD: BOAT (CANBERRA)

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