Understating Value of Racehorse

Manawatu Times, Volume LIV, Issue 6628, 15 August 1931, Page 4

Understating Value of Racehorse

SEQUEL TO SIMBA AFFAIR

United Press Association.—By Electric

Telegraph.—Copyright. Received Friday, 10.30 p.m. SYDNEY, Aug. 14. The charges against < Cal nan and Guest arising out of the importation of the racehorse Simba were heard to-day. Evidence was given by the Customs officers that Calnan, who is described as a livestock shipper, took delivery of Simba from the Ulimaroa last May, saying he intended to race Simba at tbe pony meetings. When asked about its value for primage duty, he replied “about £150.” lie signed a letter to that effect, Tho Customs investigation officer later interviewed Calnan, when he admitted that the horse was not his. Ho was merely acting for Jon Smith, a pony trainer. Later again at another interview when Guest was present, Guest interposed: “Simba was consigned to Joe Smith by mistake. Mr. Jamieson, of Now Zealand, who bought this horse for mo and who knew Smith used to train horses for me, was not aware that Smith had given up training, and t forgot to tell him.” Customs Officer Bradley said Guest told him he did not want the fact known that Simba was worth a big price as it would affect the betting market. He also feared Calnan would get into tho betting market ahead of him.

The primage duty originally paid was £ll 14/11, and since then £7O 9/10 had been paid. After other evidence, Calnan was lined £IOO with £7 4/0 costs in default imprisonment until the time is paid. Guest was lined £25. Each was allowed a month to pay the lines.