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Immigration Minister Chris Bowen has signalled a possible expansion of the so-called Malaysian solution for asylum seekers, despite fierce criticism from within his own party.

The magic list of refugees who might make the cut to come to Australia has taken on mythical proportions in the ghettos of Kuala Lumpur.

Syrian protesters are among 274 asylum seekers in limbo on Christmas Island, set to be deported by the federal government under its new policy.

NEARLY 300 asylum-seekers who have arrived since the Gillard government announced its controversial refugee swap with Malaysia look increasingly likely to be processed in Australia, despite a government pledge to deport them to a third country.

CANBERRA, Australia -- Australia said Monday that it has softened its policy on expelling unaccompanied children who sneak into the country to seek asylum, following criticism from U.N. agencies and activists.

As of yesterday, there were 47 children -- including 16 unaccompanied boys and girls -- as well as a single pregnant woman being held in 'atrocious' isolation on Christmas Island as they await deportation to Malaysia.

Alexander Downer has accused Julia Gillard of jeopardising Australia's dealings with Malaysia by dumping the controversial issue of asylum-seekers 'front and centre' in what has been one of Canberra's most difficult regional relationships.

The head of Customs says video of the shipwreck that killed up to 50 asylum seekers off Christmas Island is deterring other people from making the journey.