ALLEGED BRIBERY

Southland Times, Issue 21090, 23 May 1930, Page 7

ALLEGED BRIBERY

INQUIRY AT CANBERRA MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT INVOLVED DENIAL OF CHARGE (United Press Assn.—By Telegraph—Copyright.) (Rec. 9.40 p.m.) Canberra, May 22. Mr Justice Dethridge, sitting as Royal Commissioner, opened an inquiry into the allegation of attempted bribery, involving members' of the Federal Public Works Committee, arising out of a claim by the A class broadcasting stations for heavy compensation, from the' Commonwealth Government. The chief witness was Mr Roland Green, M.P. He gave evidepee that an unnamed man, describing himself as an insurance inspector, said to him: “I understand you are the only member of the committee standing out against the broadcasting claim, Coleman earned his £5OO. Why be a darned fool and stand in your own light ?” Green said he also was approached by Major W. J, Conder, formerly of 3LO station in Melbourne. Conder suggested that Green should accept £2OO for dresses for his wife. Cross-examined Green admitted that he had accepted free tickets for J. C. Williamson’s theatres. Williamsons were interested in the compensation claim. Green admitted that he was indiscreet in fraternizing with Williamsons’ directors after the opening of the broadcasting claim. However, he would not admit that he was throwing himself in Major Conder’s way. Senator J. B. Hayes, Senator Hoare, Messrs Chiefley, Gardner and Yates, M.P’s all .members of the Public Accounts’ Committee, emphatically denied having accepted bribes to influence their votes in favour of the broadcasting claim. Each agreed to produce his bank passbook. The inquiry was adjourned.