The Press
June 30 2003

Goff must thoroughly read Ellis case book
Letter to the Editor
by Richard Christie, (Addington, June 26)

Sir--Despite the misgivings of the majority of New Zealanders over the safety of the convictions against Peter Ellis (NBR opinion poll, May 2002) and the recent petition, Goff still calls for new evidence before he considers moving to finally resolve this case.

Goff's call is disturbing given the manner in which the trial and appeal processes have already dealt with the evidence. If new evidence is forthcoming should we expect the court system to follow precedent and scrutinise it selectively, in isolation from that which has already been examined?

It's obvious to most, but not Goff, that one cannot appreciate the majesty of a Velazquez canvas by viewing it through a rolled up newspaper.

Goff is wrong to claim that the case has been fully examined. Confidence in the judicial system is now as much of an issue in this case as is the guilt or otherwise of Mr Ellis.