Melbourne: Indian doctor Mohammed Haneef, who was wrongly accused of involvement in the failed UK terror plot, has sought "more powers" for the judicial inquiry into his bungled case and expressed willingness to give evidence.

In an interview to The Australian published today, Haneef said the inquiry should be given powers to ensure all documents are released, and witnesses, including Australian Federal Police chief Mick Keelty and former immigration minister Kevin Andrews - as well as investigators, prosecutors and bureaucrats - are compelled to give evidence and face cross-examination.

The Australian government had ordered the inquiry by a former Supreme Court judge John Clarke QC into Haneef's case last week, saying there was a need to restore the "public confidence" in the country's counter-terrorism measures.

"I am very pleased to hear that there is going to be an inquiry," Haneef was quoted as saying by the newspaper today.

"Hopefully it will take the right course. I think there should be powers to compel people to give evidence, otherwise the truth won't be revealed," he added.

Haneef's lawyers were discussing with federal Attorney-General Robert McLelland to widen the inquiry, that lacks power to subpoena witnesses or compel testimony, the report said.

However, McLelland's office yesterday appeared to dampen Haneef's hopes that he will give Clarke greater powers.

Source : PTI