Rudd urges peaceful APEC protests

LABOR leader Kevin Rudd today issued an appeal for peaceful protests during APEC, saying Australia's guests deserve to be treated with respect.

His call for calm follow media reports that both police and protesters were gearing up for violent confrontation over the coming week.

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The Stop Bush Coalition will hold a rally on Wednesday to mark US President George W Bush's arrival, and a major march on Saturday which is expected to attract thousands. Wednesday's rally does not have official police approval.

Student activists demonstrating against Mr Bush's visit will also march through the city on Wednesday, after police backflipped and granted them permission.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,22348945-12377,00.html