ILLEGAL COUNCILLORS .

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXII, Issue 808, 5 February 1910, Page 3

ILLEGAL COUNCILLORS .

BREACHES OF THE ACT,

Napier, February 3

Based upon a return presented at last night’s meeting of the, Napier Borough Council, the allegation has been made that four members are sitting illegally, as under the Municipal Corporations Act their seats are forfeited. The present position is summarised in the editorial columns of the Telegraph to day. The paper says it must come as a surprise to the public to discover such a system has gained a footing in the municipal life of Napier. It must also be a matter for regret that there are councillors who would defend such a system as right and moral. The return showed that certain councillors brought themselves within the disqualification clauses of the Act. The return constitutes a grave indictment of the whole system under which the council has been obtaining supplies from councillors.

What is known as the “ pickings ” question in connection with the Napier Borough council continues to be much discussed. One feature of the matter discussed at last nig t’s meeting of he council is that some of the councillors wh- have supplied goods to the council have apparently received payment by cheques drawn in favour of persons in their employ. Both local papers comment on this, and the point is raised whether more councillors should not follow the example of the oik who has already resigned.