Australian senator tells of 'shocking' crimes

Last Updated: Wed, 18 Nov 2009 03:45:00 +1100

The Australian Independent Senator Nick Xenophon has used a speech in Parliament to raise allegations of widespread criminal conduct within the Church of Scientology.

Senator Xenophon says he's received letters from former followers of the religion detailing claims of crimes and abuses.

He says he's passed on the letters to the police and is calling for a Senate inquiry into the religion and its tax exempt status.

Senator Xenophon told Parliament scientology is a criminal organisation

"The letters received by me which were written by former followers in Australia contain extensive allegations of crimes and abuses that are truly shocking," he said.

"There are allegations of false imprisonment, coerced abortions and embezzlement of church funds, of physical violence and intimidation, blackmail and the widespread and deliberate abuse of information."

In a statement, the Church of Scientology says Senator Xenophon has abused Parliamentary privilege and is being pressured by disgruntled former members who are unreliable witnesses.