The Hon. John Moore, MP Minister for Defence

Ministers this evening discussed the situation in East Timor in detail.

In view of the serious security situation there, the Government has directed that the readiness of a number of Australian Defence Force (ADF) units should be further raised, to twenty-four hours notice to move.

“This will provide the government with a wider range of options, including of course, the capability to contribute to any international security presence in East Timor,” Mr Moore said.

The Minister emphasised that such a force could only be deployed with the agreement of the Indonesian government.

The forces to be placed on higher readiness include principally land force elements.

The Minister also said that the ADF is planning to continue to provide flights tomorrow.

“Today's operation went well, with five flights carrying a total of approximately 300 people.”

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