Untruths Admitted In Budget inquiry

Manawatu Times, Volume 61, Issue 119, 21 May 1936, Page 7

Untruths Admitted In Budget inquiry

WITNESS EXPLAINS HIS MOTIVE LONDON, May 19. At to-day’s sitting of the Budget leakage tribunal, Kenneth Butt, recalled, admitted making a statement on April 24 to his employers which contained a number of untruths, giving the impression that he effected insurances for a Mr Harrison, whose order was not limited for any specific amounts and rates. In reply to a question by. counsel whether ho did not see anything serious in making and signing such an untrue statement, Butt replied, “Yes: I went straight to my father. I had not any motivo except to prevent the firm knowing my father was the true owner of tho insurances.” Philip Ambrumeuil, chairman of the firm employing Butt, stated in c\idcncc: “I told Butt I took a serious view of his action in effecting Budget insurances through other brokers without our knowledge or consent. 1 might have dismissed him, but requested a signed statement, which Butt considered privately before signing. I had no idea that Butt's father was concerned in the insurances.” ‘•Not Very Ethical” Mr Justice Porter closely questioned Mr Watertou in relation to a statement concerning Mr J. H. Thomas. Watertou explained that lie thought Leslie Thomas was a friend of Bernard Davis, stockbroker. “It was not very ethical,” ho said, “but I connected tho two and did it entirely on my own.”

Air Justice Porter: Having done that vou went and told Marriott that the information was from a friend who had a friend who was Mr J. H. Thomas.

Waterloo: Something to that effect. Dr. Reginald Hearn said that V crgottis said he had means of getting hold of information from a member of Cabinet and mentioned Mr Thomas. Witness regarded it in tho nature of gossip, not to be taken seriously. Mr Morris (appearing for Air Thomas) interposed that Vcrgottis was completely unknown to Mr Thomas.

Mr Justice Porter said he was grateful to Air Thomas for producing his private accounts, but ho would also like those with a bookmaker 1 or anything of that kind. The tribunal adjourned. Counsel’s addresses will be made tomorrow.