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Australian minister 'appalled' at missionary's murder

Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer has expressed hopes that India would soon nab those behind the Stains killings.

Talking to the media in Dubai, Downer, however, felt the incident did not warrant the issuance of any travel warnings to Australians visiting India.

He said Australia was ''appalled'' by the killings but was aware that the Indian government was pursuing the case ''with full vigour''.

''We are sickened by this attack but have every reason to place our faith in the Indian authorities to bring those responsible to justice,'' he said. ''I don't think, overall, it would be fair to say that visiting India would be of great danger."

''Many Australians continue to travel to India and have a great holiday. As with any other destination, travellers should take the usual precautions,'' he added.

On the crisis in Iraq, Downer said Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was fully responsible for the present plight of his people.

UNI

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