A MINISTER ANNOYED
The Minister in charge of the Prisons Department, Dr. McMillan, appears to have been annoyed both by the perfectly proper questions asked by Mr. Broadfoot and by some newspaper references to the Auckland gaol escapes. It is not only1 the right, but the duty of'members of Parliament to inquire what may be the effect on public safety of such reforms as allowing prisoners to wear civilian clothes, and- a sensible Minister rather than resenting the inquiry would welcome the opportunity to give Parliament and the public all information. The newspapers also have the right to ask for inquiry, and this is what "The Post" did. We are not aware of any newspaper "apportioning blame and making dogmatic statements" in an "irresponsible way." Investigation of the effect of recent changes in prison regime was sought, and particularly a clear statement of policy regarding the commutation of capital sentences. If the Minister is resentful of these requests he may be reminded that the Department of which he is the Ministerial head is not of private concern, but one in which the public, for their safety and the due punishment of crime, are closely interested.
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/EP19401004.2.43
Bibliographic details
Evening Post, Volume CXXX, Issue 83, 4 October 1940, Page 6
Word Count
195A MINISTER ANNOYED Evening Post, Volume CXXX, Issue 83, 4 October 1940, Page 6
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