THE KNYVETT CASE.

Evening Post, Volume LXXX, Issue 9, 11 July 1910, Page 8

THE KNYVETT CASE.

« Judging from remarks made by Southern members particularly, tho so-called "Knyvett" clause in the new Defence Bill is likely to give rise to a considerable amount of more or less acrimonious discussion. The Bill provides- that any officer who has been dismissed during the jprevious twelve months has the right of appeal againt the decision of the authorities. This, of course, will enable Mr. Knyvett to appeal. .These members who, though not opposed to Mr. Knyvett's agitation, still think that matters should be conducted on proper lines, contend that mistakes have been made all along the line, and that this clause in the Bill only adds to their number. The dismissal of Captain Knyvet* was not mado by a court-martial, but by what was essentially a Civil tribunal, and they contend that great danger will be brought about by tho apparent effort to assimilate the Civil and the military law — an effort which some members regard as likely to lead only to endless trouble and confusion. Though the centre of the Knyvett agitation is Auckland, and the Leader of the Opposition lepresents an Auckland constituency, it would appear that on this subject the Opposition is divided in opinion, and it is evident that that clause of the Bill will be the subject of warn debate.

Neil Austin, pastrycook and restaur-ant-keeper, was convicted at' the Magistrate's Court to-day of keeping open his shop on Sunday, the' 3rd inst., for (!• purpose of transacting business. According to the police, defendant, vho had pleaded not guilty, had been before tho court on six previous occasions. A fine of 20s was imposed, with 7s costs ; in default of payment he was sentenced to teytn days' imprigonmest.