DIRECTOR’S DISMISSAL

Evening Star, Issue 19802, 28 February 1928, Page 7

DIRECTOR’S DISMISSAL

THE IYA TROUBLE STATEMENT BY MR STRINGER [SPECIAL TO THE ' STAB.’] AUCKLAND, February 27. “ Nothing has ever been said or written to mo by Mr Harris that could in' any way be construed as reasons for dismissal.” In this strain writes Mr Trevor Stringer, until recently station director at IYA, in reply to a declaration by Mr A, R. Harris (managing director of the New Zealand Broadcasting Company) that Mr Stringer was aware seven weeks ago of the reason for being relieved last week of his position. Commenting upon the telegram sent to Auckland by Mr Harris to the above effect, Mr Stringer said it was refreshing to obtain any definite statement from him, although untrue. Touching ou the developments leading to his dismissal, Mr Stringer said that Mr Bellingham, musical director, came to Auckland in Christmas week, and after a fortnight suddenly informed Mr Stringer that ho had been sent up to take over immediately on arrival. This Mr Stringer refused, stating that his appointment was terminable only in a proper manner. An endeavor was then made to get Mr Stringer to resign—it would look so much better, he was told; but Mr Stringer again refused. On January 27 Mr Stringer lecoived a month’s notice in writing. Mr Bellingham was unable to give Mr Stringer reasons for such action, except that (1) lie had heard Mr Stringer severely criticised for consulting the company’s solicitor on what appeared to Mr Stringer to be a mailer of importance; and (2) about the payment of a £5 donation to the Christmas tree fund of the Auckland Hospital children’s ward. “Why this caused Mr Harris so much heartache I fail to appreciate,” concludes Mr Stringer, “because I’m still £5 out of pocket over the transaction on the company’s -behalf.”