Where’s Brett? Neil Mitchell’s ‘deep suspicion’ as CHO remains silent

Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton has rarely been heard from lately and Neil Mitchell has a “deep suspicion” about his silence.

“You know I’ve been desperate to talk to the Chief Health Officer,” the 3AW Mornings host said.

“I accept that the Health Minister makes the decisions but Brett Sutton is the man advising him.

“Nobody will tell me when he’s advised them and what his advice is.”

3AW reporter Denis O’Kane this morning questioned the Premier about Dr Sutton’s lack of availability to the media.

Daniel Andrews denied there’s any gag on Dr Sutton.

“Maybe he’s busy doing other things Denis, he’s got lots of elements to his job,” Mr Andrews said.

Neil Mitchell says he’d be “astounded” if Dr Sutton doesn’t support a push to seriously encourage — but not mandate — the return of mask-wearing in many settings.

“I think it is crucial to know what and when Brett Sutton is advising the state government because I have a deep suspicion the state government is putting politics above public health and is effectively gagging Brett Sutton,” he said.

“They don’t want to go back to these things in an election year.”

Press PLAY below to hear about Neil Mitchell’s “deep suspicion” 

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