LABOUR PARTY

Southland Times, Issue 21772, 29 July 1932, Page 5

LABOUR PARTY

ELECTION ADVERTISING EVIDENCE AT SYDNEY INQUIRY SWINDELL’S ALLEGED OFFER (United Press Assn.—Telegraph Copyright.) (Rec. 9.10 p.m.) Sydney, July 28. Giving evidence before the mechanical hare inquiry, Harold McCauley, private secretary to the ex-Premier, Mr J. T. Lang, related conversations with an advertising agent, Cruickshank, in regard to the Labour Party’s election advertising. He said he told Cruickshank he did not think there would be any advertising for the Federal election last year as there was no money in the party. Cruickshank replied that he could get money from the tin hare people. McCauley answered: “If you can, then we shall get the copy.” Later, after Mr Lang’s dismissal from office, Cruickshank returned and asked about the State campaign advertising. Witness replied: “We are still hard up,” whereupon Cruickshank said: “It is all right. I have seen him (apparently meaning Swindell). He will stand the advertising to about £4000.” Mr Monahan, who is assisting the commissioner: That was very rich generosity of him. Witness: Yes.

Did you ask any questions?—No. Was not Swindell frequently in your office?—Not frequently.

The ouestion of restoring dog racing originally came from Swindell, who emphasized that there was £200,000 in revenue in it for the Government at a time when money was badly needed. You led him to believe legislation would go through?—Yes, without any trouble. The hearing was adjourned.