"The charges concern events that took place between 1999 until 2002. Dr Ling
stepped down as minister in May 2003. Official documents relating to the PKFZ
project are classified under the Official Secrets Act 1972, and Dr Ling does not
have any document after his retirement.
"Nor, could Dr Ling have access to records other than those provided by the
prosecution for purpose of preparing his defence. In such circumstances, Dr
Ling''s defence has been seriously prejudiced.
"Adverse findings were made by the Public Accounts Committee against various
individuals in MOT and PKA (not against Dr Ling) concerning the purchase of the
land. Such adverse revelations by a public inquiry is clearly an obstacle to
fair trial," he said.
The hearing before Justice Datuk Ahmadi Asnawi continues Monday.
-- BERNAMA
ZMN NFM KHY GR