MAYOR FORFEITS OFFICE

Press, Volume XC, Issue 27442, 31 August 1954, Page 8

MAYOR FORFEITS OFFICE

CONVICTION AT OTAHUHU BREACH OF MUNICIPAL CORPORATIONS ACT (New Zealand Press Association) AUCKLAND, August 30, The Mayor of Otahuhu and Labour Parliamentary candidate, James Mackie Deas, was convicted and fined £25 by Mr R. M. Grant, S.M., in th 4 Otahuhu Magistrate’s for a breach of the Municipal Corporations Act. Deas automatically forfeits his seat as Mayor. iDeas pleaded guilty last. Monday to voting and taking part in the discussion of a matter in w.hich he had a pecuniary interest. The informant was Mrs Rita Violet Fulljames, an Otahuhu borough councillor. Mr F. H. Haigh represented Deas and Messrs M. F. Chilwell and J. J.’ Clark appeared for Mrs Fulljames. The Magistrate, in a written Judgment, said: "The purpose of section 56 of the Municipal Corporations Act is to ensure purity in loeal government and to ' keep its administration free from self-interest. "Deas knew full well that. he had no right whatsoever to vote and participate in the discussion of the resolution concerning expenses for his car, which was the basis of the information. • . ‘ “Deas is entitled to some recognition for his repayment of the amounts for the repairs. The maximum fine would otherwise have been imposed.” The Court allowed costs of £5 5s to the informant, and £l Court costs. The Deputy-Mayor (Mr J. D. Murdoch) today assumed the office of Mayor and will retain it until a byelection is held on October 9.