Commercial Broadcasting

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 72, 18 December 1937, Page 11

Commercial Broadcasting

Sir, —Your correspondent "Satisfied" endeavours to make an impressive defence of the Controller of Commercial Broadcasting, but merely succeeds in being funny. He says no charges have been made. That is simply not true. The most serious charges that could be made against any public servant were made in the columns of one newspaper and by members of the Opposition in Parliament.

Further than that, if “Satisfied" hail listened in to the debate in Parliament he would know that the Minister concerned, Hon. F. Jones, admitted the truth of several of these charges. . although he endeavoured to show that in (he McArthur case Mr. Scrimgeour wak not responsible, although he was the head of the department. Less serious allegations were made in New South Wales regarding another matter, and the Premier, Mr. Stevens, immediately set up a Royal Commission to investigate them. The New Zealand Government was not prepared to do that. It would be interesting to know whether Mr. Scrimgeour asked the Government to have these charges investigated by a Royal Commission. His theatrical outburst in Auckland means nothing. How can a so-called body of “responsible citizens” investigate anything? What power would they have to take evidence on oath or demand the production of documents? Had Mr. Scrimgeour said: “I demand a Royal Commission to investigate these charges, and if they can be proved," I will resign and give £500.” etc., the people would have taken some notice. “Satisfied” can say what he likes. He has had plenty of information regarding the allegations and if he lacks the ability to understand what he reads and hears, I am afraid it is beyond human power to assist him. One thing he can be satisfied about is that the last has not been heard of the charges unless, of course, the Opnosition shirks its duty. It may be that there is nothing in the charges. I hope that such is the case, but they are too serious to be left where they are, and an investigation by a Royal Commission would clear the matter up beyond doubt.

May I repeat the statement in my last letter: That Mr. Scrimgeour had every opportunity to take action in regard to the serious allegations printed regarding him. —I am, etc., NOT IMPRESSED Wellington, December 17.