The Australian government says it did not deny entry to seven Sri Lankan judges who headed to Fiji this week to take up judicial office.
The Australian High Commission in Suva has explained that a decision had been made to issue visas to enable them to transit Australia.
However, it said, the Sri Lankans withdrew their visa applications, having decided instead to travel to Fiji via Korea.
The response from Australia comes after Fiji Chief Justice Anthony Gates, who reportedly holds dual Australian and British nationality, on Sunday accused Australia of interference in the judiciary of another Commonwealth country.
Australia somewhat admitted to attempting to persuade the seven judges not to work in Fiji, but explains that it was a matter of “courtesy” to advise them of Australia’s travel restrictions policy once they took up their new positions.
It rejects Justice Gates’ claim that the individuals were told that they would not be allowed into Australia for medical treatment for themselves or their families.
“The Australian Government has allowed these restrictions to be relaxed on a case-by-case basis, including on compassionate grounds,” said a statement from the high commission.
Since the December 2006 coup, Australia has imposed travel restrictions on those responsible for the coup and on senior appointees of Fiji’s non-elected government and their families.
