The Australian prosecution chief, who is reviewing a terrorism related charge against Mohammed Haneef arrested over last month's failed car bombings in the UK, is expected to decide later on Friday whether to proceed with the case against the Indian doctor.
Australian Federal Attorney General Philip Ruddock said that he understands the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecution will decide later on Friday afternoon whether to proceed with the case against Haneef, who is in a Brisbane jail charged with recklessly supporting a terrorist group.
The Commonwealth has asked for more time pending the outcome of a review of the case.
If the matter does go ahead, Haneef's lawyers will be back in court at 3 pm (local time).
DPP Damian Bugg is reviewing the case and it is expected the charge against Haneef may be altered or even dropped, Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported on Friday.
Meanwhile, New South Wales Attorney-General John Hatzistergos said Ruddock must give a full explanation of the circumstances and direction of the case against Haneef.
At the Attorney General conference in Hobart, Hatzistergos said he would be very concerned if there has been an abuse of the public's confidence in terrorism laws.
"I think we need a very full explanation from Ruddock about this matter," he said adding, "he's the one who has been up before the cameras, telling us all how it was important to act the way he has.
"If of course that situation has changed, then he needs to give a full and thorough explanation to the people of Australia as to why this case has taken the course that it has."
Outside the Brisbane Magistrates Court, Haneef's lawyer Peter Russo said his client is anxious, but ready to fight any move to deport him, should the case go ahead, ABC reported.
"It's very important because with my discussions with people in relation to the problems of immigration, he may have difficulties, for example going to the UK to continue his studies or the United States or Canada," he said.
Russo said if the case is dropped and Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews insisted on deporting his client, his motivation will be political.
"That could be the only conclusion one could come to because if they drop the charges, where does that leave us in relation to the visa," Russo said.
"We've got a hearing on the 8th, if they're fair about that give us your affidavit on Monday and we'll prepare our submissions," Russo added.
On Thursday, Federal Police Commissioner Mick Keelty blamed prosecutors for mistakes in the handling of the case.
Ruddock has indicated there may be lingering questions over Bugg's approach, but added, "I have confidence in the Director of Public Prosecutions."
Prime Minister John Howard told a local media channel that he does not believe Haneef has been unfairly treated.
"What are police meant to do? They get information, if it gives them reasonable grounds to detain somebody, the people go to court," he said, adding, "if at the end of that process there's a charge proceeded with, that is ultimately resolved by the courts. If at the end of that process it's not, that is the process working."
Andrews, meanwhile, said he had no intention of reinstating Haneef's visa unless there is compelling new advice from the Federal Police.
