brogden comments may jeapordise fair trial

Friday, 3 January 2003 NSWCCL media release: 2/2003

 

 
NSW Council for Civil Liberties President, Mr Cameron Murphy, today condemned the comments made by NSW Opposition Leader John Brogden MP on 2GB’s Luke Bona Program in connection to the murder of Kurt Smith as irresponsible in the extreme. 

Mr Murphy said -- 

“I express condolences for the family of Mr Smith but this takes nothing away from the seriousness of the irresponsible action of Mr Brogden.” 

“As the alternative Premier of NSW, Mr Brogden should know better than to make such reckless remarks.” 

"Mr Brogden’s comments are irresponsible in the extreme. Everyone in western society is innocent until proven guilty and Mr Brogden should have recognised that fact before commenting in this way." 

“Unfortunately these comments have clearly jeopardised any notion of a fair trial in this case.” 

“Mr Brogden, by publicly expressing his views on this case will probably ensure the result of a delayed trial and further distress for all of those involved.” 

“This is completely irresponsible – Mr Brogden is not a man just talking to his mates in the pub, he is supposed to be the alternative Premier of the State.” 

“In contrast I note that the Premier, Bob Carr, at Sydney University today actually cautioned about commenting on the case as he did not want to prejudice it.” 


For further information contact: 

Cameron Murphy -- NSWCCL, President on 0411-769-769