"PRIVILEGE."

Dominion, Volume 4, Issue 978, 19 November 1910, Page 4

"PRIVILEGE."

A WARNING TO THE PRESS. Immediately after the reporters werß admitted to yesterday's sitting .of the Hine Allegation Committee, the chairman (Mr. J. A. Hanan), who. had a newspaper in his hand, spoke as follows:—"I would like to draw attention to what is taking place in some parts of tho Dominion m regard to our proceedings. Some newspapers have taken it upon themselves, without warrant, to comment on the proceedings of the committee. They even go so far as to express opinions as to the result of our findings. As you are aware, tlw press has no right to make such comment. Their privilege, so far t is confined to the reporting of the evidence. It is necessary to point out - to ..the press that such comment is a breach o£ privilege, and it may be necessary if. the press goes on ignoring the rights of the House and'the committee in this way, for me to ask the committee to take action and bring the matter, be-, fore the House, and have the action of the newspapers treated as a breach of privilege. I can only express the hope that the knowing what is right, and knowing that the proceedings aro* sub judice, will observe the Standing Orders." The committee then proceeded 'to take further evidence.