Minister Not Aware Of Directive
(New Zealand Press Association)
DUNEDIN, November 7.
The Minister of Health (Mr McKay) said tonight he had not been aware of Health Department action which prevented two doctors from addressing public meetings in New Plymouth.
Dr. D. M. F. McDonald, medical superintendant of Kineseat Hospital and Dr. H. R Bennett, medical superintendent of Tokanui Hospital, were sent a directive urging them “not to embarass the Minister” in public addresses on mental health treatment in New Zealand.
Both doctors cancelled public meetings in New Plymouth after receiving the notices. Regarding a petition sponsored by the New Zealand Medical Association protesting about the action, Mr McKay said: "These people should approach the State Services Commission if they want to know anything about this matter. 1 am the wrong person to approach. “At the time, I was not aware of this action but I have since read the circular in question.
“As far as I can see, it is not a directive. It just sets out the obligations of the doctors as public servants. “Politicians don’t interfere with the State Services Commission, and I am not going to do this,” he said.
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Bibliographic details
Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31211, 8 November 1966, Page 18
Word Count
194Minister Not Aware Of Directive Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31211, 8 November 1966, Page 18
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