PM Transcripts

J~ AUSTRALIA~
ACTING PRIME MINISTER
FOR MEDIA20 DECEMBER 1985
The Government has granted an extension of time for the Royal
Commission headed by Mr Justice Stewart to present its report
relating to -unlawful telephone interceptions.
Mr Justice Stewart was due to report not later than 31 December
1985. He is now to furnish his report by not later than
April 1986.
The extension reflects advice from Mr Justice Stewart that his
work under the relevant terms of reference is well advanced but
that some additional time is ' required to hear further evidence if
necessary and complete the-r a f -his report.
As well, the Victorian Government issued in June of this year
letters patent requiring Mr Justice Stewart to inquire into
involvement by Victorian police officers in alleged telephone
interceptions. This has created an additional dimension to
Mr Justice Stewart's work.
The Governments of New South Wales and Victoria have a~ so agreed
to a corresponding extension of the reporting date for the Royal
Commission under the commissions which they have issued.