Imperial Politics

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVI, Issue 203, 25 February 1914, Page 5

Imperial Politics

THE CORRUPTION' CHARGES.

SALE OF HONORS DENIED. By Cable—Press Association—Copyrignt London, February 23. Sir Stuart Samuel is appealing against the judgment hi favor of Bird, the common informer. Lord Selborne, in the House of Lords, said the. belief \v:is prevalent that so-called political -honors were actually hawked to rich men on condition that they contributed to the party funds. The belief applied to both political parties. One of the greatest dangers to democracy was of both parties becoming absolutely dependent on enormous sums for existence. Lord Charnwood, as an amendment, moved to appoint a Royal Commission. He said the Government had got beyond preeedent in giving honors regardless of party considerations. Lord Crewe said it was difficult to lay down any canon law. The only safeguard was the force of public opinion. He declared on behalf of the Premier that the party funds were not considered when honors were recommended. He would not hesitate to say that Lord Rosebery and Mr. Balfour had acted similarly. Lord Lansdowne said no course they took could obviate the dangers. ' Lord Charnwood's amendment was withdrawn and Lord Sel home's motion carried without a division.