Miss Bartlett Challenged (Press, 4 November 1971)
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Summary: Miss Bartlett Challenged (Press, 4 November 1971)
On 3 November 1971, Miss Patricia Bartlett, known for her anti-pornography advocacy, faced challenges during a Parliamentary Select Committee hearing regarding her petition. The controversy arose when committee member Mr T. M. McGuigan questioned her decision to tape-record parts of the proceedings, particularly during the cross-examination of representatives from the wholesale magazine distributors, Gordon and Gotch, Ltd. Miss Bartlett defended her actions by stating that the hearing was public, and if she had possessed shorthand skills, she could have created a verbatim record. She emphasised the importance of having an accurate account of what was said rather than relying solely on her memory for details. The committee's chairman, Mr V. S. Young, agreed to permit her use of the tape recorder, reasoning that her ability to take shorthand justified this special allowance. However, he expressed concern that she had not sought prior permission for her actions, suggesting that the committee had already shown her considerable regard. Mr McGuigan expressed his strong disagreement with the chairman's decision, stating that he believed the procedure was "completely wrong" and asked for his dissent to be officially recorded. According to standard practices, during sessions of Parliament that are accessible to the press, accredited media representatives can take notes. However, this privilege does not apply to non-accredited reporters or members of the public. The hearing highlighted the tension between public access to parliamentary proceedings and the regulations governing how those proceedings can be recorded and reported.
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