Concern about protest

Press, Volume CXII, Issue 32975, 22 July 1972, Page 13

Concern about protest

(From Our Own Reporter) WELLINGTON, July 21. Concern about the erosion of the rule of law by protest groups was expressed at the tenth annual meeting of the New Zealand section of the International Commission of Jurists last evening. In a note to the New Zealand council, quoted by the chairman (Mr G. E. Bisson) in his annual report, Mr E. J. Haughey said: “Both in New Zealand and overseas the rule of law is in my opinion being seriously threatened by the activities of various selfappointed protest groups who have no hesitation in unlawfully encroaching on the rights of others, and if neces-

sary damaging and destroying property and violently disturbing public order.” Mr Bisson said: “This is a matter which greatly concerns this section, the first object under its rules being ‘to keep under review, expound, develop, strengthen and protect the principles of the rule of law in New Zealand’.” The New Zealand council had had an article published in the New Zealand Law Journal on July 4, drawing attention to the special responsibility of lawyers to be aware of the dangers to human rights, Mr Bisson said. Authorities had said that the problem causing most intellectual excitement and popular dismay in the 1970 s would be that of violence by minorities. “Obviously the New Zealand section must be vigilant to detect any erosion of the rule of law in out midst, and to take steps to assert its fundamental concept,” Mr Bisson said. PRESERVING PRIVACY Moves to protect the private citizen against the invasion of his privacy are still being made by the section. Two specimen bills on the subject have been presented to two Ministers of Justice, and it is probable that an up-to-date version will soon be placed before a third— Sir Roy Jack. Progress was reported by Mr Bisson tonight. A special meeting was held a year ago to consider the draft bill creating civil remedies for interference with privacy.

“Although the then Minister of Justice (Mr Riddiford) was more interested in computer control, the council is obtaining the latest informa-

tion from Dr D. E. Paterson (who drafted the bills, and who is at present in London) with a view to a discussion on the subject with the present Minister of Justice,” Mr Bisson said.

“Mr F. M. Auburn (Auckland University), a member of this society, has agreed to assist on the topic of computer control, and is being asked to supply a note on the subject.”