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That boatload of refugees has caused more trouble than you would guess, MagiK.
We have had rapidly increasing numbers of boatpeople arriving in the last few years, most of them coming via Indonesia. The other week a Norwegian cargoship saved 438 refugees from a sinking ferryboat. Our Prime Minister took a stand, and the ship was forbidden to enter Australian waters. This move was approved by over 90% of Australians. Australia is a very generous country when it comes to settling refugees - but most Australians don't like those who "jump the queue" and arrive illegally. Not all of the boatpeople are true refugees, either.
Most overseas media were highly critical of Australia's action.
The full story is long and complex, and hasn't even been fully resolved yet. Check on the net for more details, if you are interested.
I point out though, that this event happened before the WTC attack.
Pangur Ban.
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