Scott Morrison intervenes to refuse permanent visas

A refugee lawyer says the Immigration Minister is deliberately using some of his discretionary powers because he opposes the the issuing of permanent protection visas.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott listens to Immigration Minister Scott Morrison during House of Representatives question time at Parliament House on October 22, 2014. (AAP Image/Alan Porritt)

Scott Morrison has intervened to refuse permanent visas and has used one of his discretionary powers to prevent appeals against his decisions.

The minister has issued what are called conclusive certificates which stop permanent protection being offered and block any review of the decision on the grounds of the national interest.

Doctor Joyce Chia from the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law says the minister is using these powers because he only wants to offer temporary protection visas.