Calls for judicial inquiry into Scientology

Independent senator Nick Xenophon has called for a judicial inquiry into the Church of Scientology following further claims of systematic abuse of members.

The daughter of the president of the Church of Scientology in Australia has claimed many children who have grown up in the organisation have been subjected to physical and emotional abuse.

Scarlett Hanna, whose mother Vicki Dunstan is the president of the group in Australia, has alleged children, including herself, were separated from their parents, denied food and healthcare and subjected to psychological abuse.
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The church, in a statement released today, rejected the claims made by Ms Hanna.
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Senator Xenophon, who last week secured a Senate inquiry into the tax exempt status of organisations such as the Church of Scientology, said the fresh claims of abuse also warranted a judicial investigation.

“Too many people have come forward with sickening tales of systemic abuse within this organisation,” he said.

The allegations made by Ms Hanna were so serious that a judicial inquiry with the powers of a Royal Commission was needed to investigate the activities of the church.

“We have allegations of child abuse, coerced abortions, false imprisonment, bullying and extortion. Surely the victims of Scientology deserve a proper inquiry,” he said.
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