Untitled (Press, 29 September 1979)

A cartoon featured in July's newsletter of the Police Association has sparked controversy, particularly from Marilyn Waring, the National MP for Waipa. Waring labelled the cartoon, which focuses on policewomen's trousers and was created by Peter Winnington, as degrading and sexist. She has taken her complaint to the Human Rights Commission, which ultimately concluded that the cartoon did not violate the anti-discrimination provisions of the Human Rights Commission Act. In her submission to the commission, Waring asserted that the cartoon reinforced harmful stereotypes that imply women are responsible for sexual assault due to their attire, referencing the notion that wearing a mini skirt or not wearing a bra causes men to act inappropriately. The illustration depicted men seemingly unable to control their desires, with the policewoman portrayed as the source of chaos due to her appearance. Waring also expressed discontent with the cartoon's representation of the policewoman, criticising the depiction of her in a "helpless" posture with a limp, pathetic arm. In response to the uproar, the commission recommended implementing an educational programme aimed at combating sexism and sex stereotyping. Meanwhile, the editor of the newsletter offered a dismissive retort to Waring's objections, stating in the latest issue, “Marilyn, don't be bloody ridiculous.”

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