“GRAFT” INQUIRY

Hokitika Guardian, 8 June 1928, Page 2

“GRAFT” INQUIRY

(Australian Press Association.) SYDNEY, June 7. At the Royal Commission inquiring into civic affairs, John C'arruthers, manufacturers’ representative. gave evidence that "in 1925 lie was assistant to Arnot, the manager for Bab-cock-AV’ileox. Witness said that lie one day received a telephone message from Sir James .Murdoch, the President of the Civic: Reform League, stating that he had learned that Babcocks were going to pay money to Hall. lie (.Murdoch) asked witness to warn Arnot that if any payment was made. they, wood get Arnot sooner or later and that it would be made public. Sir James Murdoch gave evidence that he first learned about the allegations in connection with the Bunnerong contract from a man named Gibson. The latter said that fifteen thousand pounds was being offered by the International Combustion Company if they could secure the contract. The Secretary of the Civic Reform Party had told witness that he learned that the Babeock-AYileox Company had also offered to Aldermen twelve thousand sterling if their tender was accepted. AYitness had then warned Carruthers that they would prosecute the matter to the utmost if a bribe were given.