PRESS CRITICISM OF LORD MURRAY,

Dominion, Volume 6, Issue 1775, 13 June 1913, Page 5

PRESS CRITICISM OF LORD MURRAY,

WRONG, UNWISE, BUT NOT CORRUPT.

London, June 11. The "Manchester Guardian" (Liberal) says that though there is no trace of dishonour, it was not wise of Sir Rufus Isaacs, Mr. Lloyd-Georgo, and Lord Murray of Elibank to buy American. Marconi shares, and that it was even more unwise for Lord Murray to buy on behalf of the Liberal Central Association. Tho manner in which the facts had been disclosed was disconcerting. "Harmless facts hurt if drawn out like teeth," observed the

"Guardian-." "Most of the blame must be put down to Lord Murray of Elibank, who 1b within his rights in staying away. We advise him not to let it appear that he thinks private affairs are more important than urgent publio business." Tho "Daily Chronicle" (Liberal) says:— "Lord Murray's original indiscretion and subsequent concealment were both wrong, but neither was corrupt nor selfish. Thero must be some reconsideration, of the system of "placing the party funds at the secret, uncontrolled disposal of one individual."

Tho "Daily Mail" (Unionist) remarks:— "Whatever Sir Rufus Isaao3 or Mr. LloydGeorge thought regarding the transactions being too trivial to tell Parliament it) October last. Lord Murray of .Elibanjt considered it better that tho investment of the party funds in American Maictfni shares 6hould be kept secret." STATEMENT BY CABLE. FROM LORD ELIBANK. (Rec. June 12, 10.55 p.m.) London, June 11. Lord Murray of Elibank has cabled from Quito, Ecuador, direct to the Marconi Committee the following statement: "Beg committee accept following evidence:— "I read Lloyd-George's and Isaacs'? evidence. Completely and absolutely confirm their statements. Regarding joint interest in American Marconigrams, as Chief Whip, bought three thousand, which still hold. Outside of foregoing, have never had any interest, personally or as Whip, in any Marconigram shares in any shape or form. Consulted Frank Crisp, solicitor, about Fenner's default. Agreed not to involve new Whip in muddle, but to advise him later. Neither Illingworth nor colleagues knew of this ot any Whip investments. If committee desire, will, regardless of business ot ligations, return at express 6peed." The committee, on the motion of lord Robert Cecil, cabled Lord Murray:— _ "Special report upon charges against Ministers already complete, and if return before final report, prepared to hear evidence."