PETROL COMMISSION.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume 8, Issue 88, 12 April 1916, Page 6

PETROL COMMISSION.

SYDNEY, April 10. At the Petrol Commission, Black, cross-exa.mined, admitted that he did not want the nationalisation scheme to go through. The Hon. Hoyle, Ministen of Railways, in the course of examination, declared that whatever Ministers did nowadays it always seemed that a shadow was cast upon them. There was always talk of somebody getting “baksheesh” or “boodle.” The whole thing was the idle talk of interested persons. He had no suspicions a.gainst and knew of no Minister or member of Parliament, receiving anything. The money Avas never coined that would buy Mr. Holman. Reed,, Superintendent of Stores, examined, said ho suggested that the whole business should be passed through Morgan’s hands because he believed he Avas a smart commercial man full of knowledge of the oil industry. Reed detailed the negotiations between himself, Morgan, and the managers of the British Imperial Oil Company. He denied the various statements covered by the evidence and documents produced by these managers, including those refexning to brokeiage and payment to Ministers and members of Parliament. He added that when the question of Morgan’s remuneration AA r a.s discussed, the Minister remarked, “This man Avill want brokerage.” Witness replied, “I do not expect he will work for nothing.” That Avas all. In reply to a question, witness said he understood Morgan would remunerate himself.