Jeff Colbourne
Northern News Services

NNSL (Nov 09/98) - Anne Crawford's aggressive questioning struck a nerve with Premier Don Morin's lawyer, John Hustwick, on Tuesday. Sentiments were also shared by Roland Bailey's lawyer, Charles McGee.

"I wish to put on the record an objection relating to the nature and extent of the questioning carried on by the commissioner of each of the witnesses," said Hustwick.

The lawyer advised the conflict of interest commissioner her questions should simply clarify answers given by witnesses and not go as far as to raise new issues or concerns. That's commission counsel's responsibility, he said.

"We are very, very concerned that the degree to which you are examining witnesses and the manner of your examination is giving rise to the appearance of partiality," said Hustwick.

Crawford said there's a need for certain questions to be asked and answered to ensure greater value of proceedings.

"I think that the fullest possible inquiry is what is necessary. I will attend to your concern, but I don't intend to stop asking questions of witnesses," she said.

McGee was concerned about the procedure in which other lawyers can object if certain leading questions are asked of witnesses.

Some questions she's asked would have been objected to if they were asked by commission counsel, he said.

Crawford said, again, that the better the inquiry is, the better the end result.