Editorials

Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION

Layton deserves privacy

By: Editorial

Posted: 08/2/2011 1:00 AM | Comments: 0 (including replies)

NDP Leader Jack Layton has been as transparent and up front about his health problems as he needs to be so far, but it's not enough for some critics who argue voters should know every personal health detail. They call it being transparent and accountable, but it's really about being busybodies.

Politicians should disclose health information that relates to their ability to do their jobs and their ability to serve out their terms in office, but that's where the public's right to know ends.

In Mr. Layton's case, he declared in 2010 that he had prostate cancer and was receiving treatment. He declined to say what kind of treatment, but offered assurances that the disease was under control. Prior to the May election, he disclosed he had hip surgery for a fracture caused during a workout.

That also wasn't enough for critics who wanted more information about the nature of the workout and how the fracture was caused. Mr. Layton's performance during the campaign, however, suggested his health was fine, even though he needed the assistance of a cane.

Then came the bombshell earlier this week that he had another form of cancer and was taking a leave of absence until Sept. 19 for treatment and recovery. If he doesn't resume his duties then, he will have to provide more details about his health, but if he returns looking capable, well, that should be the end of that.

American leaders have been bullied for years into providing comprehensive health profiles, including data on cholesterol, blood pressure, prostate screening antigen and every other conceivable indicator. Presidential contender John McCain, who has had battles with cancer, submitted 1,200 pages of personal medical files during the last presidential election.

Political leaders need to be frank with the public about their health, particularly during elections. Although leaders are not elected in the parliamentary system, they play critical roles in determining the fates of their parties. Mr. Layton, for example, is credited with the success of the NDP in the last election, so his health was relatively more important than that of other candidates.

The public has a right to know if candidates for office are fit enough to carry out their duties, which often involve long hours and tense moments in the spotlight. It might influence how some people vote, but negative health information is more likely to generate compassion than rejection. Mr. Layton's problems, for example, certainly did not hurt his political fortunes.

The public, however, does not need to know every detail of his condition until, or if, it becomes relevant to his performance.

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition August 2, 2011 A10

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