FREEDOM OF PRESS

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 307, 26 November 1937, Page 8

FREEDOM OF PRESS

THREATENED INTERFERENCE. BUSINESS MEN’S CONCERN. Per Press Association. AUCKLAND, Nov. 25. “It is extraordinary that at such a time and with such a Government in power the very fundamentals of democracy should be threatened in such a way,” said Mr W. R. Fee, chairman, at a meeting of the council of the Chamber of Commerce to-day in reference to the reported intention of the Government to enact legislation enforcing contributors to sign articles on political matters in the daily Press. Mr Fee said that the Prime Minister had not committed himself in any way and the' information appeared to have been a leakage from caucus. “Freedom of the Press is a heritage handed down for hundreds oi years,” said Mr Fee. “It is embodied in the constitution of the United States of America and it would be a distinctly derogatory and backward step to allow any interference with its actions in the way proposed.” Mr Fee" explained that a safeguard was provided by the laws of libel and he testified to the high standard of the Press in New Zealand in which the people had the utmost confidence. He moved: “That this council views with concern the suggestion that there may be interference with the traditional freedom of the Press which is one of the most cherished, possessions of the English-speaking race, and expresses the hope that no legislation which would in any way curb the present liberty of expression will be introduced in New Zealand.” “Regarding the suggestion made of lack of publicity for Parliament I cannot conceive of it. The publicity they get is wonderful,” said Mr A. G. Lunn, who seconded the resolution. He could not help feeling that the motive was fear of criticism of the Government against some of the laws going on to the Statute Book. “They have no need to fear,” Mr Lunn added. “The Government has ail enormous majority and can do what it likes. We must do our utmost to retain our freedom.” The resolution was carried.