Alleged Slander.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXVIII, Issue 3621, 8 March 1906, Page 2

Alleged Slander.

SIR W. DYNE IN TROUBDU

Sydney, March 5.

In connection with the slander action, W. and A. McArthur aad Company against Sir Wffl. Dyne, claiming damages, an application was made on behalf of plaintiffs for a special jury of twelve. Counsel for defendant opposed the application and asked that it be tried by a common jury. The Chief Justice in delivering the unanimous judgment of the Court, granting the special jury, said that if any case heard in the State for many years required a special jury, it was this, one side being a leading firm of merchants and the other the Federal Miniiter for Customs. The Minister was alleged to have charged the firm with gross fraud by selling goods under false pretences. If the charge was brought home then it would effectually damage their character for all time a* a firm. The hearing is fixed for March 19. Sydney, This day.

The action is based on the words, “ What do you think of McMillan’s firm and David Storey’s firm buying hats from Anderson and compelling him to mark them inside ‘ Made in England ?’ ” It is alleged that the statement was made by Sir W. Dyne to Senator Pulsford in the refreshment roem of the Federal Parliament, in the presence of Mr Deakln (th* Premier) and Senator Playford.