PM stands by Conroy on Google
update Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has said that he stands by comments Communications Minister Stephen Conroy made about Google collecting Wi-Fi data when driving around the nation.
Senator Conroy said on Monday the internet giant could have "hoovered-up" the bank details and other private information of Australians.
The Australian Bankers Association dismissed such claims when speaking to the Australian Financial Review today.
The System Administrators Guild of Australia (SAGE-AU) has also spoken out against Conroy, warning that his claim that Google's Street View Cars were potentially acquiring internet banking details was "misinformation verging on fear-mongering".
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) are investigating Google's actions for possible breaches of the Telecommunication Interceptions Act.
Asked if the Senator's remarks could prejudice the work of the AFP, Rudd replied: "The minister's statements speak for themselves".
"I am sure there will be a continued and robust exchange between himself and the companies concerned," he told reporters in Sydney on Tuesday. "I'm sure they will both argue their positions. I stand by what the minister has said."
Senator Conroy said it was up to police to accept Google's claim that the collection of personal information was a mistake.
Update at 3:52pm, 8 June 2010: SAGE-AU comment added.