DIRECTOR CHARGED

Press, Volume C, Issue 29518, 20 May 1961, Page 11

DIRECTOR CHARGED

Top Public Service Man

CANBERRA, May 19. The Director of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories, Dr. P. L. Bazeley, has been charged with improper conduct as a Fedeial public servant and suspended from duty in his position.

This was announced laje today by the chairman of the Public Service Board, Mr F Wheeler.

Announcing the decision, Mr Wheeler said: "The Director-General of Health. Dr. W. G. Refshauge. has told the Public Service Board that on May 18 he charged Dr. P L. Bazeley, and suspended him from the close ot business on May 19. ‘The charge is that Dr. Bazeley was guilty of improper conduct in his official capacity in that he. being an officer of the Public Service, made statements to the press in criticism of, and attempted to promote opposition to, the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories’ Bill, introduced into Parliament by the Government.

“In accordance with the Public Service Act and Regu. lation, Dr. Bazeley has been required to reply to the Charite in writing, stating whether he admits or denies the truth of the charge, and giving any explanation he desires." Mr Wheeler’s announcement indicates that the first step in an expected inquiry has now been taken.

It follows the publication last week-end of the criticism by Dr. Bazeley of the Government’s decision to place the laboratories under the control of a five-member commission.