( 68 )
Q.-Have you ever had certain specific complaints to make against them for putting bad material in?
A.—No, not generally.
Q.--You have had occasionally ?
A.—I have had occasionally some slight complaints.
Q. Do you know of any Contractors outside those who are employed by the Government who would tender if they were asked?
A.-No.
Q.-You think the Government as a rule distributes its patronage pretty fairly amongst all the Contractors?
A. Yes, so far as I know.
Q.-You have never had any complaints that others could do it cheaper?
A.-No.
Q.-You don't think a better system could be adopted?
A.-I think not, to the best of my opinion.
Q.-The CHAIRMAN.-Have you ever heard any individual say anything against the Public Works Department, or repeat anything, or say there were rumours?
A.—No, except what I see in the Hongkong Telegraph.
Q.-You have never had the opportunity of challenging any one as to the truth of these things?
A.-No.
Q.-You have no suspicions as to what can have given rise to this?
A.--No, none.
Q. Are there any men who used to be Contractors, who have ceased to be are still in the Colony?
A.--Not that I am aware of.. I don't know of any particular one.
So,
who
Mr. JOHN MINHINNETT is examined.
Q.--Hon. A. LISTER.-What are you in the Public Works Department?
A.-Foreman mason.
Q.-You were employed on the Praya works?
A.--Yes.
Q.-You came out on purpose?
A. Yes.