I.W.W. CASES

Marlborough Express, Volume LIV, Issue 183, 4 August 1920, Page 5

I.W.W. CASES

A KNOTTY PROBLEM

, [Press Association.] (Received Aug. 3, 7.25 p.m.) ' SYDNEY, Aug. 3. The question of the release of I.W.W. prisoners in accordance with Judge .Ewing's report is the subject of much comment in the newspapers. It is regarded,as a serious matter that the .findings of a junior judge imported from another State should be allowed to override the considered findings of the. older and more experienced judges of the New South Wales' Supreme Court.

It is suggested that the Government might mend the position by referring Judge Ewing's recommendations'to the judges who have already dealt with the cases for a report before releasing the prisoners. In reference to Mr Storey's contention that Judge Ewing's 'Commission was the fulfilment of a. promise given by the Labor. Party at the huntings, It is contended that such si. promise could not justify a departure from such a. sound and approved legal practice, as that involved, particular-ly-by .a Government!' that did not secure a majority mandate from the electors.

PRISONERS' RELEASE

ORDERED

(Received Aug. .'1 9.45 p.m.) SYDNEY, Aug. Sh A''special meeting 6f the Executive Council ordered the release of all 1 W.W. prisoners except King and Reeve. The Trades; Hal! Council is arranging a « public 'welcome to the men at the Town Hall on Friday.

' UUDICIAL BURLESQUE. ''

: (Received Aug. ..3, 10.20 p.m.) - SYDNEY, Aug. 3. Mr Fuller views the release of the I.W.W. prisoners with the greatest consternation. He referred to Judge Ewing's statement that he was quite careless of what the opinion of the people of Sydney would be," because by the time his report was received he would bo in Tasmania.''

Mr Fuller concluded: '.'The whole country will ' iesent, this latest judicial burlesque.';' Mr Foxton, ■ Independent Nationalist, who, since the elections has supported the Government, stated that in view of the dangerous precedent established he would m future oppose the Government. Ho suggested that Mr Levy should resign the Speakership and support the' Opposition.