Labor strongly objects to a man who killed three Australian soldiers being included in a list of 400 Taliban prisoners to be released under a decree from Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.

The families of Sapper Martin, Private Poate and Lance Corporal Milosevic deserve a full explanation about what steps the Morrison Government has taken to ensure Hekmatullah is not released.

The Government should make public when Australia was advised of this deal, what representations have been made since and what the response has been.

Australia has long supported the Afghan peace process being negotiated between the Taliban and the Afghan government, with the support of the United States.

Labor calls on all parties to reconsider Hekmatullah’s inclusion in this deal, in the interests of justice for the three victims and their families.

Scott Morrison has worked hard to build his friendship with the US President – and we urge the Prime Minister to continue to personally press this case with President Trump.

Our thoughts are with the families of these three soldiers and we will continue to advocate for justice to be served.

Authorised by Paul Erickson, ALP, Canberra.