The Hon. Stephen Smith, MP
Minister for Foreign Affairs
PO Box 6022
House of Representatives
Parliament House
Canberra ACT 2600
12th May 2008
Dear Minister,
I write to draw your attention to the trial of political activists in Vietnam.
Members of the local community have raised their concerns over the arrest of Dr Nguyen Quoc Quan, Mr Somsak Khunmi and Mr Nguyen The Vu by Vietnamese authorities in November 2007; and their closed-door trial for ‘terrorism’. I have attached these representations made for me, for your perusal.
I have been advised that these gentlemen were taking part in peaceful, non-violent activities; were mistreated in their detention and interrogation, resulting in forced confessions; and will face an unfair trial.
Minister, I kindly request that the Australian Government make representations to the Vietnamese government on the welfare and trial of Dr Nguyen Quoc Quan, Mr Somsak Khunmi and Mr Nguyen The Vu; and on the broader issue of human rights in that country.
I look forward to your reply.
Yours faithfully,
Chris Bowen, MP
Federal Member for Prospect
Assistant Treasurer
Minister for Competition policy and Consumer Affairs