Danger of thoughtless ‘free’ speech

TWO recent examples of the concept of “freedom of speech” prompted this week’s column.

The first is a Member of Parliament’s use of parliamentary immunity to unfairly and consciously smear the good name of another MP by insinuating without any proof that he was offered bribes. When questioned by the Speaker, he retracted his statement. When there were calls for his suspension, the MP meekly and unashamedly “apologised”.