It is appallingly hypocritical for Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke to cancel the visa of Israeli politician Simcha Rothman on the eve of his Australian tour (“Ban on Israeli MP a spiteful move”, DT, 19/8). After insisting on Australia recognising Palestine without asking us and listening to a free and open debate in the process, the Labor government seems to think that any discussion could only be acrimonious. Anyone disagreeing with them is accused of hate speech or denied visas in the case of Mr Rothman. Sadly, the Coalition was equally guilty when denying a visa to Milo Yiannopoulos who hailed from the conservative side of politics. A number of Gazans have been given visas since there is no way, according to Mr Burke, that they would spread hate and division. Fortunately, technology will allow Mr Rothman to address his audiences online and offer the Jewish community solace in their unfamiliar challenges in Australia’s suburbs. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 20Aug2025