Note: Rita's letters are published here and elsewhere on the internet at the request of their author and with the approval of her mother. Her address is suppressed for obvious reasons.

Dear John Howard,
firstly I write this letter for the people in the detention centers. I think that it is not fair for the harmless people in foreign countries that are not safe that come to Australia which is a safe country and then get loked up in a prison and get treated like they are a bomb that could go off. I also think that if you are going to lock them up at least give them better food! and try not to make them do suicide (think of their children!)
thanks Rita Judah
age: 10
adres: [...]

Reply from John Howard (?)

Dear Mr Howard, (or Mr Howards secretary)

One month ago I wrote to you about the detention centers. I wrote about the acomodation and food, and perhaps you remember me mentioning the children? Well I would like to know how you treat them, what you feed them and their education, I have heard rumors about this and it has erged me to know the truth. But in the letter of response I heard nothing about children, food, or if you could stop them doing suiside (in a nice way). I did not belive all the words in the respose nor did my class, I also could not understand the answers of the questions I asked because of the advanced way you put it. I would also like to know wether that was your real signature on my previous response.
From Rita Judah
age: 10
address : [...]

Ps. I hope you take my concern about the detainees seriously!

Reply from John Howard