immigration officials and will now allow religious groups to hand out
holy books at citizenship ceremonies.
A new code for citizenship will apply to Korans, Bibles, Torahs and
other recognised religious books to be used to swear oaths of
allegiance.
Mr Bowen announced the reversal of the policy yesterday following a
review of the current code.
"I am pleased to release an updated edition of the Australian
Citizenship Ceremonies Code, which revises existing policy around
several areas, including the use of holy books at ceremonies,'' said
Mr Bowen.
"The changes will allow religious organisations wishing to provide
holy books to new citizens, to supply those books to ceremony
organisers. The holy books will be made available by organisers and it
will be entirely up to individuals to choose whether or not to take
one.''
Opposition spokesman on Immigration Scott Morrison said he welcomed
the "change of heart''.
"The minister has seen the light," he said.
