Unanswered questions, Smoked out, A good bet

There has been only one inquiry into the shocking Brighton child neglect case so far - and that was in private. Now one of the witnesses who gave evidence to it has told the Argus it was nothing more than a whitewash.

This professional says the inquiry, by the area child protection committee, was not independent and the report it issued was not accurate. We can't comment because it was held behind closed doors. But it does raise further concerns about the way this whole affair has been handled.

The agencies involved knew there would be criticism once the court cases were over and the couple involved were jailed. So they huddled together to provide a joint response. They commissioned a report with an independent chairman but there was nothing independent about the rest of it.

Serious questions remain unanswered about why hundreds of visits were made to this vile couple and yet the poor children were allowed to remain in their appalling home.

Only a public inquiry can answer them. After this latest revelation, council bosses must join the Argus in calling on Health Secretary Alan

Milburn to order one.

Smoked out

Smoke got in the eyes of Pamela Hallett when she worked for the Talbot Tool Company and she was right to complain. Thirty years ago, smoking was the norm in most workplaces. Now it is not and Mrs Hallett has rightly won compensation.

Even most smokers accept their habit can cause irritation to non-smokers and could be a health hazard. Sensible companies either designate smoking areas or allow smokers the time to have a puff outside the back door. Talbot Tool please note.

A good bet

Proof of changing attitudes on smoking comes with the opening of a fag-free bookies at Brighton Marina.

Traditionally there's been a smoky atmosphere as punters ponder how to pick a winner in the next race. But Hyperion Racing has gambled the smoking ban will be a success now most people do not smoke any more.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.