“GRAFT” INQUIRY

Hokitika Guardian, 22 May 1928, Page 1

“GRAFT” INQUIRY

(Australian Press Association.)

SYDNEY, Afay 21

At tlio Royal Commission Inquiry into civic affairs, Silas Mating continued his evidence. He said that when the matter of payment to an alderman was- arranged with Aimot (of Babecrk-AYilcox Coy), the latter iuIsisted on making witness a present ol £2OOO for himself. Witness reluctantly agreed to accept. The whole matter war, being discussed with Arnot. He (Alaling) asked Arnot- what amount ho proposed to pay to aldermen, and Arnot said £7.503 with £IOCO for Alderman Iloldswartb. The lender then wont before the Council, which approved of It. and the contract, was git leu tii the Babcock-Wi loos firm. Alaling continued that he had heard no more about tho money business for some time. Then Arnot came to his office and said that lie could not get the money out, and that he was afraid to get it out, for fear it should be detected, and ho asked Alaling if he knew any way out of the difficulty. Witness promised to think it over for a few days. Later lip! met Albert in the street accidentally, and told him that Arnot con'd not get the money out from England. Albert then said that Buckle had a much bigger account than his, and would he better able to handle tho transaction. Later Albert told witness that Buckle was prepared to let the money go through his account, and that lie (Albert) wanted £IOO for his services in making arrangements with Buckle. Alaling continued that this was agreed to, and brought the total amount to £IO,OOO. The next tiling Alaling beard was when Albert came to his office and told him the money had arrived. Alaling then told how lie received various amounts through Albert and Aliss Gordon, which he handed over to Alderman Green.

Cross-examined, ALiling said lie told .Arnot not to give IToldsworth any money, as if lie did, others would not get their .shares. He further stated that when he left Australia, he would have returned had he received reasonable treatment from the Civic Cb-in-niissiouers. Before ho left he had asked for leave to consult a Harley Street specialist, but this was refused, so he then went to Now Zealand without leave on the advice of his doctor.

At this stage. Air Justice Harvey said that lie would have to investigate the allegations in connection with the International Combustion Company’s tender, as it seemed to run right through the whole matter.