STRANDING OF JOHN

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 8340, 29 January 1913, Page 7

STRANDING OF JOHN

AIAGISTERIAL INQUIRY AD-

JOURNED,

A magisterial inquiry into the stranding of tho steamer John on the morning of December 19th last, while on a voyage from Gisborne to Wellington, was opened at the Magistrate’s Court last evening. Dr. A. McArthur, S.M., presided, and had with him as nautical assessors Captains Black and Gillespie. The Marino Department was represented by Mr W. Rose; Mr S. Kirkcaldie appeared for Captain S. Holm (master of the vessel), and Mr H. Buddie for the first officer (Mr W. H. Roberts). The John ran ashore near the mouth of the Tuki Tuki River, some distance southward of Napier. Mr Rose said that it would be necessary for the inquiry to be adjourned, as the second officer had not been furnished with the necessary notice. It would appear from the facts that the second officer was the one whoso certificate would most likely be endangered ; at the moment, he was on his way from Greymouth. Mr Rose suggested that the inquiry be adjourned till Thursday. Mr Buddie pointed out , that the inquiry could not be formally opened without notice having been served on the second officer. • Mr Kirkcaldie Said there was no charge to bo answered. Dr. McArthur: If no evidence has been taken, there is no inquiry. I think it is only right that the second officer should be protected. Mr Rose: I think it is fairly clear we have not commenced. The rules state that the inquiry commences with the production of evidence. After some discussion it was decided to defer the inquiry till next Wednesday, February sth, at 2.15 p.m. The second officer, who was in charge when the vessel stranded, would bo served with notice in the meantime.