BRIBERY CHARGES FAIL

Taranaki Daily News, 9 August 1930, Page 9

BRIBERY CHARGES FAIL

AUSTRALIANS EXONERATED BROADCAST CLAIM SCANDAL . RESULT OF INVESTIGATION By T«leiraph—Press Assn.—Copyright, Rec. 8.30 p.m. Canberra, Aug. 8. Allegations of bribery against Mr. Coleman (chairman) and members oi the Federal Public Accounts Committee arising out of their inquiry into compensation claims for A class broadcasting stations have not been sustained by Judge Dethridge, who investigated the allegations made by Mr. Roland Green, M.'P. ’

The judge completely exonerates the committee, also Major W. T. Conder, formerly manager of 3LO station, Melbourne.

The chief witness was Air. Roland Green. He gave evidence 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. Mr. Coleman earned his £500; why be a darned fool and stand in your own light?” Mr. Green said he was approached also by Major Conder. Major Conder had suggested Mr. Green should accept £2OO for dresses for his wife. Cross-examined, Mr. Green admitted he had accepted free tickets for J. C. Williamson theatres. Williamson’s were interested in the compensation claim. Before the inquiry, adjourned. Mr. Green admitted he had been indiscreet in fraternising with the Williamson directors after the opening of the broadcasting claim. He would not admit, however, that he was throwing himself in Major Conder’s way. Senator J. B. Hayes, Senator Hoare, Messrs Chieflley, Gardner and Yates, members of Parliament, 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.