THE TEXT OF THE COMMISSION

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume XLIX, Issue 12631, 19 October 1905, Page 8

THE TEXT OF THE COMMISSION

WELLINGTON, October 18. The text of tlie Audit Commission ;feets out that, whereas it has been alleged that the audit system of the "Colony is inefficient and that depa-rt-.mental records may fail to show any itnace of particular payments, and that such a. case actually occurred in the .year 1904, when, as alleged, a voucher ■of between £70 and £80 was issued in favour of Captain R. J. S. Seddou for reorganisation of the Defence stores land money paid him at the Chief Post Office, Chrdstohureh, although inveeti■gation and search by the Audit Department disclosed no record or trace of any ■such voucher, therefore it is deemed expedient that inquiry should be made into the question, and the Chief Justice jand the whole of the .other Judges, or asueh of them, not being less than three, •ias are appointed to inquire into and report on the following questions:— (1) [Whether a voucher for the payment of an (amount by icheque on the public account, signed by payee, could disappear without any record of its existence or payment being- left in the Departmental 'books or record? (2) Whether in -ttihe years 1903-04 a voucher was issued -in favour of Captain Seddon for payment to him at ■Christ-church out of ifche public account of a sum between !£7O and £80, or any other sum for the reorganisation of the Defence stores or for any other service? (3) Did Captain Seddon ever claim or receive any such ■payment, or sign any such voucher?

Full powers are given to the Commissioners as to calling -witnesses, ordering the production of departmental books and vouchers relating to the subject matter of the inquiry. Power is also •given for interested persons to appear •or be represented before the Commission. The Commission is urged to use all diligence, and to report not later 'than the 30th of October, 1905, or such -extended date as may hereafter be named.