Labor’s silence on Fox Case concerning
Shadow Attorney-General Stephen Wade said he was concerned at the Labor Government’s silence in the face of significant community disquiet at the sentence in the Malcolm Fox case.
The Labor Government’s own Commissioner for Victims Rights has recognised community concern at the perceived leniency of the sentence and is supporting the victim to seek an appeal through the DPP.
“In the face of this community concern, I cannot understand why Attorney-General John Rau has not sought a briefing from the DPP on the case and prospects for a review of the sentence,” Mr Wade said.
“In my view, it is fair to say that the community expectation is that a conviction for such an offence would mean time in custody.
“I respect that Mr Fox is appealing his conviction, but the Labor Government needs to consider the outcome from the point of view of sentencing.
“While we don't need another round of court bashing by Labor, victims need to be assured that the Government is protecting their interests.”