JURY-ROOM SCANDAL.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXIV, Issue 1963, 20 December 1906, Page 2

JURY-ROOM SCANDAL.

THE ORIOK-WILLIS TRIAL.

PROMISED DISCLOSURES BEFORE

ROYAL COMMISSION.

PRESS ASSOCIATION—COPYRIGHT Roooivod 11.50 p.m., Deo. 19 Sydney, Deo 19

In accordance with yesterday’s arrangement tho wholo of tho j ary engaged in the Cciok-Willis trial waited on Mr W»do in rofotenoo to certain implications involving tho purity of tho jury system, arising out of a statement published in a certain paper. It was apparent that there was oonsiderablo foeliDg between two Beotionß of the jury, thoso noi included in the deputation who yeaterd.y saw Mr Wade objecting to tho foroman as their spokesman.

Preparatory to making any statement of fasts the foreman sought to obtain a promise of indemnity against any action that might arise out of suoh a statement.

Mr Wade gave an assurance that as far as tho sheriff's officers were allegod to be involved or concerned no action would be tnkeD, but he could not pledge the Gevernmont to a general indemnity. In support of his request for an in demnity the foreman said that word had been brought to him that morning that one of tho jury had stated that he pos« sessod a few hundred pounds, and as long as he had that he would hound the foreman to earth. They knew certain thiDgs which Mr Wods ought to know, but were not prepared to make a statement whioh would lay them open to trouble. Another juryman declared that he knew nothiog. If he did he would make a statement.

Eventually Mr Wade suggested a Royal Commission,

The foreman declared that if a Commission were appointed six jurymen would oome forward and give evidenoe on oath, provided they were shielded. Subsequently the Cabinet appointed a Dislriot Court Judge ae a Royal Commission to iaquire into the matter.