DHINEMURI LICENSING POLL.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2416, 3 February 1909, Page 5

DHINEMURI LICENSING POLL.

Jai-Bixe OF PETITION

[Press Association.]

WAI HI. Fob. 2

The respondents in connection with the petition to .void the, Oliinemuri licensing poll concluded their evidence to-day, after some eighty witnesses had been examined. The evidence was principally in contradiction of that given bv the petitioners as to the crowded condition of the polling booths, and violation of secrecy of the ballot.

Mr. Adams said lie did not propose to call any more evidence. Mr. Skerrctt notified that he intended to call rebutt.a’l evidence. Mr. .Adams asked on what grounds, Mr. Skerrctt argued that he was entitled to call evidence affecting the secrecy of the ballot, and proposed to roea.ll Constable Driscoll in that respect. Counsel pointed out that no retrial could be held in tlie present ease, and in fairness mid justice to the petitioners the evidence of Constable Driscoll should be admitted. He also proposed to call one or two witnesses to rebut the evidence in connection with what occurred during the day. Mr. Adams objected to the ■application being granted, and submitted that his 'friend should have been prepared to introduce his evidence on all points in connection with the petitio. Mr. Skerrctt could not have been taken by surprise as he (Mr.. Adams) had not .introduced any new matter. Mr. iSkerrett replied, and pointed out that it was impossible for him to have known to what times the respondents’ evidence was to be directed regarding the conduct of the poll. Counsel submitted that a very great injustice would be done to the peti,toners if the application was refused. , The Court decided to hear Constable Driscoll’s evidence onlv. Constable Driscoll ’stated that* lie, as a. result of exposure and the crou clod condition of the polling booth at times, saw how at 'least thirty votois recorded Llvcir votes, ‘but tlioi o lviuy* have been -a greater number. The Court, adjourned till to-morrow morning to hear the addresses of counsel.