Western Maori Seat.

Hokitika Guardian, 10 March 1923, Page 2

Western Maori Seat.

• UY TELEGRAPH —PER PRESS ASSOCIATION’] TAXTUNGA, March 8. In the Pontare petition, further evidence was given this morning regarding a meeting at Matapihi, at which I’ornate was said to have thieateucd to punish Natives who did not- vote for him. Tlie evidence was a denial that any such threat was made. ’[•fie greater portion ol the morning was taken up with evidence refuting the allegation that Natives were treated to drink at Muir’s Mine during Poitiare’s meeting there. Geo. Muir, managing director of Muir’s Goldmining Company, denied that any whisky was served to Natives either in the house or outside. Any statement to tlie contrary was an absolute falsehood. Noble, Mine Manager, also testified that there was no drink whatever, and he stated he must have seen any if it was served. .Several witnesses were also examined as to the alleged occurrence, and asserted that nothing of the kind took place. Mr Skerrett K.C., (for petitioner) said that two girls who were alleged to have served liquor had not been able to be seen since the occurrence and the Bench decided to summon them to attend the Court. Subpoenas were thereupon issued, and a motor car despatched to Muir's house at the mine, where they arc employed to bring them

to the court. The taking of the Tauranga in the I’oni are petition case was eluded this afternoon with the taking of further evidence denying the _ alleged drinking at Muir s Gold Mines during Poinare’s meeting there, and the hearing was adjourned to the Supreme Conn at Auckland at 10 a.m. on Tuesday.