A DEAL IN LAND.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 149, 30 July 1914, Page 8

A DEAL IN LAND.

THE BOORABIL ENQUIRY. PUBLIC AND PRIVATE INTERESTS. By Cable. —Press Association. —Copyright. SYDNEY, July 29. The taking of evidence in the Boorabil enquiry has concluded. Mr llolman, the Premier, -produced a memorandum showing that he was not presort at the Cabinet meeting at which vho purchase was approved. Mr McDonald, a member of the Assembly, and a land agent, was examined. lie said he did not believe that Parliamentary land agents abused their position. The Commissioner pointed out that their interests as members and as land agents might conflict, and asked: " You, as agent, having put a land case before the Minister, lie decides in your favour. Then there is a motion of censure on the matter and you are called upon to vote. What position are you in?'Mr McDonald replied: "I would not vote." The Commissioner: "Then you would be neglecting your duty as member. Is it a right thing that your private interests should be allowed to conflict with your duty to the public." Mr McDonald thought such a posi'tioTi was not likely to arise. The Commissioner: "But it has arisen In the present case."