Abbott, Bishop statement on executions

STATEMENT BY TONY ABBOTT AND JULIE BISHOP:

* The Australian government deeply regrets the executions of Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran. The government had hoped that Indonesia would show mercy to these young men, who have worked hard since their arrests to rehabilitate themselves and improve the lives of other prisoners.

* They committed a serious crime. Lengthy prison terms would have been an appropriate punishment. In jail, Andrew Chan brought comfort and hope to others and Myuran Sukumaran shared his skills to give prisoners the chance of a better life.

* Our thoughts and prayers are with Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran's family and friends at this extremely difficult time. Australia respects Indonesia's sovereignty, but deeply regrets that Indonesia could not extend the mercy it so often seeks for its own citizens.

* We will withdraw our ambassador for consultations once the men's bodies have been returned to the Chan and Sukumaran families. Ministerial visits will remain suspended.