New Zealand takes precautions

Following on from the terrorist bombings in Sydney, the Prime Minister has activated the Officials Committee for Domestic and External Security Co-ordination which is meeting tonight.

The Committee comprises the Chief Executives from Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Defence Force, the Ministry of Defence, the NZSIS, the GCSB, the NZ Police, the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management, Treasury and is chaired by the Chief Executive of DPMC.

The Australian authorities are concerned that those involved in the attacks may be leaving or have left Australia. As a protective measure we will be requiring greater verification at our borders of passengers arriving from Australia, until further notice.

A meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Domestic & External Security Co-ordination, will be chaired by the Prime Minister tomorrow morning to further consider New Zealand’s response to the attacks in Sydney.

The Prime Minister has also consulted with other party leaders who have agreed that it would be inappropriate for the House to conduct business tomorrow, so after motions of condolences, it will be adjourned until Wednesday.