BISHOP LISTON.

Hokitika Guardian, 18 May 1922, Page 2

BISHOP LISTON.

HV I KI.EGUAI-H—l’Kll PKKBS ASSOCIATION]

AUCKLAND. May 17. .JitinoK o’linen, a timber merchant, gave evidence that from a personal interview with bishop Liston he was convinced the Bisnop was as loyal ns inmseli. and a s.roujr .supporter ot Irish l' ree Rule. This closed the base tor file defence. Counsel then addressed the Cocrt. VERDICT OF “NOT GUILTV.” WILD CHEERING IN COURT. AUCKLAND, May 17. A venlict ol “not guilty” was returned to-day hy the jury in the trial of Bishop Liston, 'l’he announcement of the -verdict was the signal for an outbreak of wild cheering, and hondclapping in the Court, The shrill cries of the women ill the gallery Were particularly protnineilt: ,• i Wheii order was restored, the Judge sdid thrlt if the police could liiid tiny oiie who took .part in tile demonstration, lie would commit them for colitempt of Court. After the counsel on both sides had addressed the Jury, His Honor occupied an hour in his summing up. The jury deliberated for 75 minutes. They added a rider stating:—“We consider that Dr Liston was guilty of a grave indiscretion in using words capable of an interpretation so calculated to .rive offence to a large number of the” public of New Zealand, and we hold he must hear a responsibility, in part at least, for unenviable notoriety that has followed his utterances.” His Honour:—“Thank you gentlemen That is a very sensible rider.” I