Review in Haneef's case a welcome step: Lawyer

MELBOURNE: Australian Attorney-General Philip Ruddock on Thursday said a review into the case of Mohamed Haneef will not undermine the government's handling of the terrorism charges as the Indian doctor's lawyer welcomed the move, saying it would help end public speculation about the case.

Haneef is charged with recklessly supporting a terrorist organisation and Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Damian Bugg is personally reviewing the case.

Ruddock said the review is simply an example of Australia's legal system at work. "The fact is Damian Bugg is an independent statutory officer. He makes those decisions and if people are saying they support him carrying out his function, if that's what they're saying, then they're supporting the Government."

Bugg has a responsibility to ensure that he is satisfied with the handling of the case, the Attorney General was quoted as saying in the media.

"He can't do everything himself, he has to work with his staff but he also has administrative responsibility for the totality of the organisation," he said.

"He has to establish the appropriate guidelines, he has to be satisfied that all those who work with him are dealing with the issues for which they have responsibility" he further said.

Queensland Premier Peter Beattie welcomed the DPP's decision to review the material in the case and said he will now back off his public commentary.

"I only ever wanted some action on this and we've got that action. I want to congratulate Bugg on that and I'm pleased that he's made that decision".