NO SMOKING

Evening Post, Volume CXXVIII, Issue 39, 15 August 1939, Page 6

NO SMOKING

DOMESTICS' SITTING-ROOM

PROTEST TO HOSPITAL

BOARD

(By Telegraph—Press Association.)

AUCKLAND, August 14,

The prohibition of smoking in the sitting-room occupied by the female domestic staff employed at the nurses' home was described as "harsh and unreasonable for the year 1939" by the secretary of the Auckland Hotel "and Restauran Employees' Union, Mr. F. G. Young, in a letter received by the Auckland Hospital Board tonight. He said that as a result of the enforcement of the regulation by the sister in charge the girls complained that if they wished to smoke they had to do so in the bathroom.

"When I approached the sister in charge she said that it was the regulation and that it was to be enforced, but the girls could smoke in the laundry if they liked." Mr. Young said. "I have asked several board members if they know of any such regulation being approved by the board, but they disclaim knowledge of it, In the circumstances I have to conclude that the regulation in question has been enforced by one of the officers of the board." Mr. Young asked the board to consider the matter with a view to removing the objectionable regulation anri any other calculated unduly to restrict the freedom of the board's employees. "Personally I don't like the habit," said Dr. Hastings, "but under the prevailing customs the restriction seems harsh."

Mr. W. K. Howitt: It is common in universitieo. hospitals, and other institutions in New Zealand that there is one room where smoking is not allowed.

Dr. Hilda Northcroft: I undei-stand the regulation was made as a precaution against fire. It was decided to refer the matter to the lady superintendent, Miss Nutsey, for a report.