Interpreter found not competent

Press, Volume CXVI, Issue 34100, 12 March 1976, Page 14

Interpreter found not competent

A charge of theft brought against a 20-year-old woman was dismissed for want of prosecution in the Magistrate's Court yesterday because the Japanese interpreter present was not considered competent. Mr B. A. Palmer. S.M.. said that his deciesion was in no way a reflection on the interpreter's ability or integrity. The interpreter was an officer on the same ship as the complainant. 3 Japanese seaman, and had assisted the police in their inquiries. The defendant had pleaded not guilty to a charge of stealing $2OO. a cigarette lighter and wallet. She also pleaded not guilty to a charge of being idle and disorderly, on March 7 at Lyttelton.

Senior-Sergeant M. J. Forbes told the Court that the case had to be heard yesterday as the ship Jc panese Ambassador was sailing that afternoon. He said that no other interpreter was available at short notice. The Magistrate questioned the

interpreter and decided his interpretative abilities were not acceptable. He said that the law required a “fair and accurate translation.” The interpreter told the Court that he was competent in translating ••shipboard” matters, but found difficulty in others. Mr Palmer said that ".iustice must be seen to be done. ’ and suggested to the prosecutor that “no evidence be offered.” The prosecution agreed and the case was dismissed for want of prosecution. The defendant was remanded to April 7 for a defended hearing on the idle and disorderly charge.