The Newcastle Irregularities
Though the Tribunal appointed to inquire into the administration of the Fire, Police and Civil Defence Services of Newcastle-upon- Tyne found that there was no evidence supporting the suggestion that corruption was prevalent in these services it reveals a state of affairs that is discreditable and disquieting. The irregularities which have been the subject of complaints chiefly centre round Councillor Embleton, who was Chairman of the Watch (A.R.P.) Committee and also A.R.P. Deputy Controller for the City ;- but it is pointed out that in spite of the high degree of authority which he derived from his dual offices his colleagues must bear a share of responsi- bility. Mr. Roland Burrows, in presenting the Report to the Minister, comments upon a number of transactions, which include the disposal of an old fire engine without authority to a company which Councillor Embleton controlled, the removal by the same company as " scrap " of a pump belonging to the Fire Service, the irregular acquisition by the same company of a fishing boat which had been selected by A.F.S. officials for ust as a fire-float, and others which show that the Councillor was making use of his position for his own advantage. The Report, to say the least of it, passec severe strictures upon one individual ; but not only that, it reveals a slackness in the Council's administration which ought not to be tolerated. The excessive- concentration of power in the hands of one man and the ease with which questions were hushed up or put aside were defects which have damaged the good name of the Council. The report will prove to be of value in calling attention to the need for more vigilance in local government, and especiall. in these war days when so rimy unusual powers have to be exercised. Newcastle is not the only home of irregularities.
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