PM Scott Morrison backs Alex Hawke’s decision to cancel Novak Djokovic’s visa; touches upon the sacrifices made by Australians in wake of the pandemic

PM Scott Morrison backs Alex Hawke’s decision to cancel Novak Djokovic’s visa; touches upon the sacrifices made by Australians in wake of the pandemic

Scott Morrison, Novak Djokovic, Alex Hawke

Minister of Immigration, Alex Hawke had finally made his decision to cancel Novak Djokovic’s visa once again. Alex Hawke’s decision was highly awaited as he exercised his ministerial power in this regard. As expected, Novak Djokovic’s legal team have appealed the decision in the court, and a verdict could be expected over the weekend.

Prime Minister, Scott Morrison has refused to comment much on the entire scenario, and also refused to take questions about Novak Djokovic at his press conference on Thursday. However, he set out a media release and backed Alex Hawke’s decision to cancel Novak Djokovic’s visa.

Australians have made huge sacrifices over the past two years in wake of the pandemic, hence Scott Morrison was very well aware of that. Hence, he believes that it was in public interest and to keep the sentiments of people that the decision was made to cancel the Serb’s visa.

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Scott Morrison gives full backing to Alex Hawke’s decision

Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic

Scott Morrison reflected on how Australia has thrived during the lockdown with strict regulations in place. Hence, he believes Minister of Immigration was right to use his discretionary power in regards to the Novak Djokovic visa situation.

“I note the Minister of Immigration’s decision in relation to Mr Novak Djokovic’s visa. I understand that following careful consideration, action has been taken to cancel Mr. Novak Djokovic’s visa held on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in public interest to do so,” the statement read.

“This pandemic has been very incredibly difficult for every Australian but we have stuck together and saved lives and livelihood. Australians have made many sacrifices during the pandemic, and they rightly expect the result of the sacrifices to be protected. This is what the Minister is doing in taking this action today,” he added.

PM Scott Morrison has refused to give out any further statements because of ongoing legal proceedings. Novak Djokovic is scheduled to play his first round match at the Australian Open 2022 on Monday. His chances of defending the title in Melbourne remain bleak as of now.

Also Read: ‘We’ve all got to play our part,’ Andy Murray asks Novak Djokovic to get vaccinated for the common good of society