Fed: Bikie laws have safeguards: SA High Court lawyers

AAP General News (Australia)
04-20-2010
Fed: Bikie laws have safeguards: SA High Court lawyers

The South Australian government's defended its anti-bikie laws in the High Court arguing
they have safeguards to protect civil liberties and the independence of magistrates.

The SA Supreme Court has ruled the laws invalid .. following a successful challenge
from the Finks motorcycle club.

But South Australia's solicitor-general MARTIN HINTON QC has appealed that decision
.. saying his state's crime laws are fair.

A lawyer for the Finks says the government could rely on dubious criminal intelligence
to get restrictions placed on people .. including innocent associates.

Justice VIRGINIA BELL asked who judges an attorney-general's decision if civil liberties
are curtailed and Mr HINTON replied subjects of a control order could apply to the SA
Supreme Court to have the decision reviewed.

But he's admitted the law hasn't properly defined who constitutes an associate member
of an outlaw group.

AAP RTV saj/rl/crh

KEYWORD: BIKIES (CANBERRA)

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