DARWIN ENQUIRY

Hokitika Guardian, 4 March 1920, Page 1

DARWIN ENQUIRY

By LjccU-.o Aeicglapu—Lo'j>*,gii‘./

MELBOURNE, March 3. Before the Northern Territory Commission the Alan aging Director ol tile Northern Australian AleatCoy., gave evidence that the allegation that practically the whole country between the Queensland border and Darwin was in the hands of Vestey Bros., was untrue. He said that among the large land holders in the Northern Territory, was the ! Bovril’Coy of Australia. This company holds 12,000 miles. Vistey’s con. corn holds 31,000 square miles of land.

The witness said there was no connection whatever between the sources of Vistey’s money supplies, and tile interests which constitute the American beef trust. Ho denied that thero was any reference to any connection with tiie American beef trust in tho report of Vestcy’s operations in the Argentine, •Russia, China, Australia, New Zealand, Venuzela, Brazil, Paraquay, Aladagasear, France, Spain and Portugal. Witness added that it was suggested to him when Dr Gilruth concluded his term as Administrator, that Dr Gilriitli should act for Vestey’s as buying and selling agent in Melbourne, but witness did not consider the position would suit Dr Gilruth. At tho territory enquiry, Ewing said he was satisfied there was no collision betweon Vestey’s and Gilruth, and no evidence of improper conduct against Carey or Evans,