THE POLICE COMMISSION.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6120, 5 March 1898, Page 7

THE POLICE COMMISSION.

[Paa Phess Association.] WELLINGTON, Makck.4. ; ' Colonel Hume said that he had en deavoured, with a fair anioun t of success, to catch "tote" odd layers, but- in tho present state of the law, it was extremely difficvilt to obtain convictions. Sergeant Wright, clerk in the Inspector's office, Wellington, was next examined, but his evidence was not.itnporfcant. James AnnishaWi labourer, but formerly a bar attendant in Christchurcb, was then examined. He stated that in a certain hotel in Chriatchurch there was a system of electric bells in connection with Sunday trading, and it gave satisfaction in announcine 1 the approach of the police. Witness alleged that the police were at times served with free refreshment, outside of hours in return for services rendered. Witness did not suggest that the whole of the police force ot Christchurch, could be bribed with liquor. During the proceedings, Mr Taylor lodged a charge against Constables Baruett and M'Kenzie, of Christchurch, of having frequented publichousep in that city, and it is possible that Annishaw will be summoned to go south with the Board. HASTINGS, March 4. The Hastings Standard of to-day gives the assertion of Colonel Hume before the Police Commission, that Hastings is the worst place in the colony for spielers an absolute and positive denial, and demands proof or withdrawal. On the police being interviewed, they endorsed the statement that there is not a spieler in the town, and what few have come here have been dealt with as the law permits.