N.S.W. Scandal.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume XXXVI, Issue 4285, 21 July 1899, Page 2

N.S.W. Scandal.

Pbr Pbkss .Association. — By Electric

Telegraph. — Copyright.

Received July 20, 1.80 p.m.

Sydney, July 19. ! In the debate on the Address-in-Reply, Mr Norton made a fierce attack on the Premier's sction in connection with the negotiators with the Bank of New Zealand over the purchase of the Boxhili railway for £22,500, when Parliament had only authorised £20,000. Norton alleged, from information reoeived from a disobavt ed official of the Bank, that Mr Btid received accommodat'on fr^.m the Bank to the extent of £2000, the only -security for whioh was a life policy for £100, with no surrender value. He charged the Premier with corruption in the matter, as well as in connection with a transaction relating to the sale of a colliery, another cf the Bank of New Zealand s properties. Mr Norton further stated that be was prepared to place press copies of letters and shorthand notes relating to tbe whole business at the disposal of the House.

Mr Reid, replying with strong emotion, said Norton's statements were infamous lies. He showed that in every step of negotiations with the Bank of New Zealand he consulted and had the sanction of the highest and most trusted officers. So far from there being a secret understanding, it was known to every officer of the department, and ultimately it was agreed that the difference between £20,000 and £25,000 should be split and the bank be paid £22,500. He challf nged anyone to say he ever obtained a penny from the bank without paying interest, end repudiated the least insinuation that a letter credit he obtained in London had been given him by way of favor from the bank.

Mr Barton, in the name of the Opposition, strongly condemned the attack on Mr Reid, who he said bad easily repelled all the charges. The debate was adjourned and before eeparating the House gave thiee cheers for Mr Reid.