Re: The Notorious Changi Prison

Date: March 08, 2004

"Downer pleased by Changi news

FOREIGN Minister Alexander Downer today welcomed the Singapore government's announcement that it would preserve parts of the notorious Changi prisoner of war camp.
The Singapore government yesterday said it would preserve a symbolic part of the still functioning prison, which is to be demolished to make way for a mega-complex to be completed in 2005.
"I warmly welcome the announcement by the Singapore government that it will preserve some key elements of the Changi Prison," Mr Downer said.
"Changi Prison is of immense historic and emotional value to many Australians, particularly those who were interred there during World War II and their families.
"Over many months, the government registered Australia's interest in having some parts of the old Changi prison of special symbolic importance to Australia preserved.
"The Singapore government has shown sympathetic understanding of Australian interests in ensuring that part of the old prison is preserved.
"I know that this has not been an easy matter as Changi remains a working prison and because of the scarcity of land there is a need to redevelop the site to make room for new prison facilities.
"I am sure that the many Australians who have registered their interest and concern about ensuring that symbolically important parts of the old prison are preserved will join me in welcoming the Singaporean announcement."
A 180-metre stretch of the prison wall, including two corner turrets, will be saved along with the main gate, which will be relocated to a section by the wall, the government said.
©Australia News"