Mr. E. J. Ward
p. 17 · Read in the full issue
Discussion Before NG Timber Lease Inquiry
THE Australian Royal Commissioner (Mr. Justice Uigertwood) who is in quiring into the circumstan:es of the New Guinea “timber leases, 1 ’ so far as the case affects the integrity and admin istration of Mr. E. J. Ward, Minister for Australian Pacific Territories, resumed his sittings in Sydney on May 10.
All the evidence was submitted several weeks ago, and the Commissioner now is hearing the addresses of counsel.
Counsel assisting the Commissioner, Mr. Shand, KC, in his analysis of the evidence, declared that there was nothing to prove that Ward took a bribe in any shape or form, or that he had any guilty knowledge of the activities of the syndi cate (J. S. and Harcourt Garden, Ray Parer and Farrell). Mr. Shand also sug gested that the attitude and activities of the Queensland timber company (Han cock and Gore Pty., Ltd) contributed to the trouble.
Mr. Justice Ligertwood said that, if Mr.
Shand’s submissions were correct; • J. S. Garden might not be guilty of forgery (for which he was jailed). • But Garden might be deeper in the conspiracy of which he was acquitted.
Mr. Shand’s later argument contained a strong attack on Hancock and Gore Ltd., and their solicitor Mr. Biggs.
The inquiry had no: concluded when this journal went to press. There is no indication of when the report of the Commissioner will be presented to the Prime Minister. Meanwhile, although Mr. Ward has been relieved of his port folios and Mr. Chambers is acting as Territories Minister, Mr. Ward apparently still has the salary and status and some of the privileges of a Commonwealth Minister.