And why is it more 'compassionate' for asylum seekers to stay in their own country to be tortured and/or murdered, than to allow them to choose to risk drowning instead? Australians who say we must 'stop the boats' to save people's lives have no understanding or compassion. They just don't want to share what we have here.

Some are 'terrified' because they still believe Howard's claim of being 'ínvaded', and yes, the government should be more upfront about refugees' humanity. Though the language has changed, especially lately. However, we should remember that people smuggling is a multi-million $ business, is believed to be allied with piratical acts including child kidnapping, and that possibly 400 boat people have drowned trying to get here.