Annette's King-sized muzzle on free speech

green-party

Mon Mar 10 2003 13:00:00 GMT+1300 (New Zealand Daylight Time)

Annette's King-sized muzzle on free speech

Monday, 10 March 2003, 9:52 am
Press Release: Green Party

Green MP Sue Kedgley said she was dismayed by health minister Annette King's attack on Canterbury District Health Board member Erin Baker for expressing her views on health funding.

"This is yet another example of the health minister trying to gag and muzzle democratically elected DHB members and prevent them from speaking out on health matters," said the Greens Health spokesperson.

"Instead of trying to stifle dissent by lashing out at any DHB member who criticises or holds a different view to her own, Ms King should be encouraging honest and open debate within the health sector."

Ms Kedgley said she supported Ms Baker's call for DHB members around the country to speak out on health issues and not accept gagging by DHBs.

"What on earth is the point in going to all the expense and trouble of democratically electing DHB members if they are not able to openly express their views and be accountable to the people who elected them," she said.

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

a.supporter:hover {background:#EC4438!important;} @media screen and (max-width: 480px) { #byline-block div.byline-block {padding-right:16px;}}

Using Scoop for work?

Scoop is free for personal use, but you’ll need a licence for work use. This is part of our Ethical Paywall and how we fund Scoop. Join today with plans starting from less than $3 per week, plus gain access to exclusive Pro features.

Join Pro Individual Find out more

Find more from Green Party on InfoPages.