Leaking documents isnt breach of law: Haneefs lawyer

Admitting that he leaked legal documents relating to a police interview of Indian origin doctor Mohammed Haneef, accused of supporting terrorism, counsel Stephen Keim has said that no law has been breached through this act.

Sydney, July 19 : Admitting that he leaked legal documents relating to a police interview of Indian origin doctor Mohammed Haneef, accused of supporting terrorism, counsel Stephen Keim has said that no law has been breached through this act.

Keim has challenged the authorities to present legal advice that would suggest that the leak was breach of the law.

Criminal barrister Greg Barnes said that legal papers are commonly leaked to journalists.

"This happens on both sides. It's happening every day of the week in cases around Australia," Barnes told ABC radio.

"What needs to happen in Australia is the laws relating to lawyers speaking to the media need to be loosened," he added.

Yesterday, Australian Prime Minister John Howard condemned the leak of transcript of Haneef's first interview with the Australian Federal Police (AFP).

"Whoever has been responsible for the leaking of this document is not trying to make sure that justice is done. Whoever is responsible for this is trying to frustrate the process, and it should be condemned," Howard said.

The Australian reported that it had been given a leaked copy of the 142-page document showing Haneef fears about being "framed".

Haneef's first taped interview with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) was leaked to a newspaper on the day he filed an appeal against Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews decision to cancel his work visa.

AFP Commissioner Mick Keelty and Attorney-General Philip Ruddock, have suggested that Dr Haneef's defence team may have leaked the transcript.

Defence lawyer Peter Russo, however, said he was sure that the leaked transcript had not come from his firm's office.

"Some people might say it's good for the public because they get the first opportunity to see some questions and answers and the second side of it would say, 'Well, it could sort of prejudice his court case' and that's a worrying feature about it," Russo added.

The Gold Coast-based doctor has been charged with providing support to a terrorist organisation that was allegedly involved in a failed plot to blow up a London nightclub and the Glasgow Airport.

ANI