The Australian argues that probing links between terrorism and refugees is vital to security and Mr Lewis and other intelligence and security leaders need to be frank with the public.
I have absolutely no evidence to suggest there is a connection between refugees and terrorism, ASIO director-general Duncan Lewis told a Senate committee.
The Australian points out that probing links between terrorism and refugees is vital to security as we battle the Islamist extremist scourge, and warns that his remarks could only undermine public faith in security agencies.
The paper argues that the public understands the overwhelming majority of Muslims in this country abhor Islamist extremism, therefore they dont need officialdom to shelter them from reality.
The Australian says without frankness from the ASIO and other intelligence agencies, we are unlikely to expect public co-operation which plays a pivotal role in countering terrorism.
The Australian pointedly says voters seem to be demanding leadership on issues related to national values and the major parties are not providing it and calls for the Prime Minister to show leadership on the issue.
