ALLEGED GRAFT.

Press, Volume LX, Issue 18231, 15 November 1924, Page 13

ALLEGED GRAFT.

THE SYDNEY ENQUIRY.

(by cable— pbess association— copimos?) (AUSTRALIAN A?TD IT.g. CABLE ASSOCIAWW.) (Received November liiih, 9.25 p.m.)

SYDNEY, November 14.

Alderman MeEJhpne, examined' bofore the Cropley Commission, testified that though Aldermen Shannon and Charlton were of ft party differing from his, he knew no more honourable men, and considered them above suspicion.'' Dealing with the position of Cjty Council affairs, Alderman MeElhone said so many peculiar things took place there that they created. a considerable amount of suspicion in his oyes, <md in the eyes of bis party, so that it became necessary to watch proceedings very closely. Extraordinary decisions were reached, which would justify any Alderman oomingi to any conclusion he thought fit. There was no explanation of these, Asked by a Commissioner if lie bad come to the conclusion that there must bo some underhand business at work, Alderman MoElhone replied that he had no doubt whatever. Some of tho conclusions could not be come to honestly. Asked: "Do you mean there was graft?" ho answered, "Undoubtedly." Alderman Shennon, examined, gave, a general denial to the allegations and declared he was not connected with any corrupt practices. He did not know Cropley, and could suggest no reason why his name should have been dragged into the case unless, as someone had suggested, Cropley was suffering from hallucinations. Alderman Charlton, examined, r?ave a complete and general denial to the allegations, which he regarded as fabrications without any apparent motive.