Katter calls for cut to migration

Federal independent MP Bob Katter wants an end to mass migration, and for Australia only to allow in people from democratic countries without a history of terrorism.

He has launched a petition calling for the annual migrant intake to be cut to 100,000 and strict criteria imposed on those who do come.

People from a persecuted minority and a country with a tradition of rule of law and democracy would not have the "gates" closed on them.

"But people that may be persecuted minority groups that are coming from countries with a dreadful history of terrorism and attacks upon the West - no way Jose," he told reporters.

Asked if that meant he wouldn't let Muslims into Australia, Mr Katter said the petition left that up to the government to decide.

"We're not putting any racial or religious vent upon this at all, we're just putting out a criteria," he said.