Abuse of Free Speech

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 95, 22 April 1941, Page 5

Abuse of Free Speech

“PICKING SMALL HOLES IN VAST PROBLEMS" (British Official Wireless.) Recoived Monday, 9.20 p.m. RUGBY, April 20. Criticisms of the abuse of free speech was made by Mr. A. P. Herbert, M.P., in a broadcast on Sunday. Parliament aud press and private people, said Mr. Herbert, had on tho whole made a fino and fair use of the ration of free speech the Government had wisely allowed them. “But," he said, “there are thoso who go about picking small holes in vast problems. There are those who express tremendous faith in their leaders or their country as long as all goes well, but when anything goes wrong will bo found to have said all along that the move was mistaken. ‘ ‘ Each is abusing the privilege of free speech. It is the easiest thing in the world to pick holes, but it is not always the best way to mend a situation. We can face the facts and still be fair. We can be hopeful and resolute without incurring the charge of compalcency." Mr. Herbert concluded: “Let us try to follow the example of our great leader, Mr. Churchill, who enjoys the greatest freedom of speech in the country. If ever in history a man was entitled to paint on his banner a vast ‘I told you so,' it is he. But he has never said that, and as far as I know he has never uttered a word of reproach for all those in every party who would not listen to him before. Mr. Churchill is as magnanimous in triumph as he is resolute in defeat. He has forgotten • all that—or put it aside. He says nothing but what is necessary for the one great purpose."