Aus PM backtracks on India ban after criticism

Scott Morrison

Australia's prime minister fended off accusations of racism and having blood on his hands on Tuesday, as he retreated from a threat to jail Australians trying to escape Coronavirus-wracked India.

Scott Morrison's government moved to ban travellers from India from entering Australia until May 15, threatening rule-breakers - including Australian citizens - with prison time.

Amid a widespread backlash, Morrison on Tuesday said it was highly unlikely that Australians who skirted a ban would be jailed. "I think the likelihood of any of that occurring is pretty much zero," Morrison said in a breakfast-time media blitz on Tuesday.

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