CONSUMPTION INQUIRY

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 379, 13 June 1928, Page 16

CONSUMPTION INQUIRY

REASONS FOR PRIVATE SITTINGS REPORT TO BE PUBLISHED (Special to THE SUN) CHRISTCHURCH, Tuesday. “We decided at the outset to hqld our meetings in camera, because we felt that the persons interviewed would speak more freely if reporters were not present. Nevertheless, if Mr. Smith or Dr. Blackmore wish reporters to be present while they give their evidence this morning, we have no objection.” This explanation was made by the chairman of the inquiry into the treatment of consumptives, Dr. F. W. Fitchett. Mr. A. T. Smith, chairman of the public health committee of the North Canterbury Hospital Board, said the public in Christchurch was very interested in the question, but if the committee thought it would be better that the Press were not present during the giving of evidence, he was prepared to agree, if the committee would give an assurance that the report when completed would be published. The chairman: That depends on the Minister. We understand that the report will be published. Mr. H. J. Otley, chairman of the North Canterbury Hospital Board, agreed that it would be far better to take the evidence in camera, and to have the report published. The chairman said he would hand a statement of the position to the Press. Mr. Smith: It will satisfy the Christchurch people, who are to a man behind this movement. The public pays, and likes to know, and if a thing is held in camera it thinks it is a “dark horse.” The chairman: We wish to get to the bottom of it, to produce a constructive policy. Mr. Smith: I am perfectly satisfied that everything is all correct. I know perfectly well that we are going to get a run for our money. The committee then proceeded with the taking of evidence.