SCANDALOUS!

New Zealand Times, Volume LIII, Issue 12605, 16 November 1926, Page 6

SCANDALOUS!

The “Times” has not seriously interested itself in the Elliottcreated aftermath of the Baume case, primarily because it knows the reverend gentleman. Mr Elliott smelt political or social influence when, on the recommendation of the Prisons Board, Baume (with his associate in the crime) was unexpectedly released, after serving a fraction of his sentence. Two others were included in this part of the indictment. We have to admit that in the past the Prisons Board has occasionally surprised with its soft-heartedness. To the early release of Baume was coupled the appointment of Mr Dallard as Controller-General, which is described in intemperate language. Thus “armed,” Mr: Elliott demanded a Royal Commission to inquire into the two “scandals.” 3o far as Mr Dallard is concerned, the Attorney-General'-polite-ly refuses to accede to the “demand.” -The Minister is indisputably in the right. The challenger is merely a private person, with po more status (in the particular sphere where he has intruded) than the man in the street. Quite properly he has been put m his place. So much for the Controller-General. Promised a magisterial investigation into the Baume case, Mr Elliott will not hear of it. He will not appear before such a tribunal. “The Government cannot pick and choose” ... Mr Elliott reserves that right to himself, being who and what he is: a mere private citizen. He insists on a real Commission to hear all the charges, and will give evidence before none other! Why not a Commission composed of the Rev. H. Elliptt, with the Rev. H. Elliott as chief witness in support of the impeachment?