CR. MURRAY'S CHARGES

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 352, 12 May 1928, Page 13

CR. MURRAY'S CHARGES

MAGISTERIAL INQUIRY URGED DEPUTATION TO MR. COATES Another step was taken in the Murray Inquiry this morning, when City West ratepayers, lead by Messrs. H. P. Taylor and J. Lundon, waited on the Prime Minister and asked for support in getting a magisterial inquiry. Mr. Taylor asked the Prime Minister if he had perused the documents and evidence sent forward. “I hive rather more important questions —without indicating any disrespect,” remarked the Prime Minister. Mr. Coates said the application for an inquiry had to go through certain channels, and it was unusual to agree to a magisterial inquiry without definite charges. In this case they had both appellant and respondent of the same opinion, but the Government did not know what it was about. Mr. Taylor said the public demanded the inquiry. There had been some interjection, at a public meeting, in St. Benedict’s Hall, but they had since learnt this Was by four professional agitators, one of whom was a wharf labourer.

“Whatever I am, I am no humbug,” announced Mr. Lundon, who said the Government had given a Royal Commission on transport which no one seemed to want, and had refused an inquiry into the Murray charges, when the whole city demanded it. Mr. Taylor said the majority of members of the council had been there when the incidents complained of had occurred, and naturally they were not keen on an inquiry, which might be against .their interests. Cr. W. H. Murray also addressed the Minister* and advocated the necessity for putting the house of the City Council in order.

Mr. Coates pointed out that the question was one for the Internal Affairs Minister and he would endeavour to expedite it. “It is almost indicated by some things said that you think the Government is treating the question lightly,” remarked the Prime Minister, “but we are as anxious as anyone to assist local authorities in maintaining the highest quality of administration.”