Prime Minister Tony Abbott's assessment of torture in Sri Lanka has been slammed by the federal opposition while his British counterpart insists leaders should not back away from difficult human rights issues.
In Colombo attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), Mr Abbott on Friday commented on reports of alleged torture by Sri Lankan security forces.
Mr Abbott told reporters that while his government "deplores the use of torture we accept that sometimes in difficult circumstances difficult things happen".
Labor rejected the comment.
"The use of torture is never justifiable," shadow attorney-general Mark Dreyfus said on Saturday.
"There is never a 'difficult' situation where torture should be accepted."
He cited the Commonwealth Attorney General website, which states: "the prohibition on torture is an absolute right. This means it cannot be limited or qualified under any circumstance".
Asked of Mr Abbott's comments, British Prime Minister David Cameron told reporters in Colombo on Saturday that he would let his Australian counterpart speak for himself, but said debate should not shy away from controversial topics.
"I think it's right to confront and discuss the difficult issues, the human rights issues, journalistic-freedom issues, importance of reconciliation," Mr Cameron said.
The British Conservative leader agreed with Mr Abbott's opening remarks at the CHOGM which championed the potential of Sri Lanka.
"But I think we do that not by gliding over the difficult issues," Mr Cameron said.
Following a meeting of the two leaders on Friday, Mr Cameron took the opportunity on Saturday to heap praise on Australia's new leader.
"I welcome the election of Tony Abbott and welcome the very strong and good working relationship that I know that we'll have," he said.
"I think he's a politician of immense stature and ability and I'm sure he'll do an excellent job."
