Coalition backs human rights laws

The federal opposition will back the formation of a parliamentary committee on human rights.

But the Labor government still faces a battle to get its human rights legislation through parliament.

Opposition justice spokesman Senator George Brandis said while the coalition agreed with the concept of the committee, it would oppose the definition of "human rights" being based on international agreements.

It would also remove from the attorney-general's hands the power to declare legislation was compatible with Australia's international human rights obligations.

Senator Brandis said if the government agreed to these two amendments the coalition would not oppose the bill.

Australia is party to seven core international human rights treaties but has resisted legislating a bill of rights.

The new committee, formed of representatives from the lower and upper houses of parliament, would be able to examine laws to see if they breached human rights.

It could also hold inquiries into broader human rights issues.


(2011-2-22/ninemsn)