Masterton Death Investigation – Food Labelling – Cookie Wars – Asbestos Epidemic – US Elections – Fewer Sick People -
Tuaman
MASTERTON DEATH INVESTIGATION: The family of a Masterton woman found dead in the bath are being criticised for taking so
long in an investigation. Police have said there is insufficient evidence suggesting foul play to indicate any need for
prosecution. Police are defending their investigation. Maureen Hammond was found dead in the bath by drowning. Bruising
was found on her body and no drugs in her system.
FOOD LABELLING: Australia and NZ have signed an agreement which means consumers will get to know how much saturated fat
and sugar there is in their food. The agreement was signed today after the Health Minister pushed for more information.
Some say the basic information would have been enough because not enough people read labeling. Sanitarium says research
shows consumers do know and make choices based on information in the nutrition panel.
COOKIE WARS: Cookie Time has had an initial success in its law suit against Griffins biscuit barrels securing an order
for the removal of the Griffins look-alike line from stores.
ASBESTOS EPIDEMIC: An Auckland University report says 9-12000 people –mainly builders – will die of asbestos related
cancer. The symptoms can take 20-40 years to develop. Asbestos was used lots in the 60s and 70s. ACC is being asked to
do more to identify the victims and do more work on compensation. The study has been sent to the Minister of Labour.
US ELECTIONS: George W. Bush is a big step closer to the White House tonight with a ruling that Miami-Dade county is
entitled to choose not to recount its votes. Thanksgiving counts are taking a toll on the counters in other counties.
One of the canvassing members in Broward County has given up from fatigue and has been replaced by a Judge. Both
campaigns are busy finding replacements for volunteers to help the count.
FEWER SICK PEOPLE: Doctors believe a low flu count this year is due to the flu vaccination campaign. Drs say that the
virus was on the way out anyway after four years of circulation. Dr Pippa McKay says some doctors are feeling the pinch
from a 30% fall in patient numbers.
TUAMAN: A Samoan beauty queen walked all over David Tua when he arrived home in Apia today. His fans were delighted to
welcome a dancing David. There was lots of fire in the ceremony. Tua will make a Nationwide TV appearance in the US on
Monday.