Illiteracy seems to be spreading rapidly in Australia, and we can thank Peter Dutton for reminding us of this threat.

Dutton has said, referring to refugees, “No one who attempts to travel to Australia illegally by boat will settle in Australia” (as quoted in the Guardian on 18 May).

But since there is nothing illegal, under either Australian or international law, in an asylum seeker arriving by boat or any other means, it seems we are left with only two alternatives: either he is lying, or he has misread the relevant legislation.

The first alternative is of course excluded, so it is clear that Peter Dutton is in need of remedial literacy training. I assume the government will arrange this at the first opportunity. While Dutton is busy learning to read English, perhaps his job could be filled by a refugee on Nauru or Manus Island.