A FREE PRESS
A FUNDAMENTAL OF DEMOCRACY By Telegraph—Press Association AUCKLAND, November 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. This statement was made by Mr W. R. Fee (chairman) at a meeting of the Council of the Chamber of Commerce to-day. His reference was to the Intention of the Government to enact legislation enforcing contributors to sign articles on political matters in the dally Press. Mr te said the Prime Minister had not committed himself in any way, and the information appeared to have been a leakage from a caucus meeting. “Freedom of the Press is a heritage handed down for hundreds of 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 pee explained the safeguard provided by the laws of libel, and testified to the high standard of the Press in New Zealand, in which the people had the utmost confidence. He moved the following motion:— “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 a hope that no legislation which would in any way curb the present liberty of expression will be introduced in New Zealand.” ‘‘Regnrding the suggestion made in the Press of the lack of publicity for Parliament, I cannot conceive of it. The publicity they get is wonderful," said Mr A. G. Lunn, in seconding the resolution. He could not help feeling that the motive was fear of criticism of the Government against some of the laws going on the Statute Book. “They have no need to fear,” Mr Lunn added. “The Government has an enormous majority, and nan do what it likes. We must do our utmost to retain freedom. The resolution was carried.
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/THD19371126.2.103
Bibliographic details
Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIII, Issue 20895, 26 November 1937, Page 14
Word Count
345A FREE PRESS Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIII, Issue 20895, 26 November 1937, Page 14
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