Cannibals on menu for MPs' odd day

A PARLIAMENTARY inquiry into school ethics classes took a bizarre turn yesterday, as touchy topics such as having sex with animals, euthanasing disabled children and cannibalism were discussed.

Conservative NSW Liberal MP David Clarke asked Parents4Ethics volunteer and ethics program co-ordinator at Sydney's Randwick Public School, Catherine Suttle, whether she approved of the views of bio-ethicist Peter Singer's philosophy.

When she said she did not know much about Professor Singer, Mr Clarke then asked: "You are aware that he has justified sexua| relations between humans and animals?"

Ms Suttle, who appeared startled by the question, replied: "No."

Mr Clarke then asked if Ms Suttle was aware of Professor Singer's views about the euthanasia of disabled children.

"Is that really relevant?" Ms Suttle responded.

"You would understand that in a course on ethics, these sort of matters may be raised by your volunteers," Mr Clarke said. Ms Suttle replied: "I don't think those sorts of issues are raised."

Cannibalism was also brought up to challenge how ethics teachers deal with the question and whether it is right or wrong when discussing it with children.

m.news.com.au/NSWACT/fi972108.htm