Canberra, Australia - FOREIGN Minister Alexander Downer has asked the ACT Supreme Court to consider dismissing a case brought against him by spiritual group Falun Gong.
Falun Gong members claim certificates issued by Mr Downer banning their protests outside the Chinese embassy in Canberra are invalid.
A spokesman for Mr Downer said the minister would argue there was no reason for the litigation to continue because he ceased issuing the certificates in March.
The spokesman said Mr Downer had always supported the right of Falun Gong to demonstrate peacefully, but was obliged under international and domestic law to prevent the impairment of the dignity of diplomatic missions and staff.
He said Mr Downer applied to the court to have the case dismissed.
The matter has been adjourned to December 11.