The Prevention of Corruption Bill, which comes into effect with
the New Year, will, we hope, work a salutary reform in commercial life. It makes it a criminal offence for any agent corruptly to accept, or for any person corruptly to give, any consideration for doing or refraining to do any act in relation to his principal's business, or for showing any favour or dis- favour to any person in relation thereto. Certain words in the Act, such as " corruptly " and "knowingly," may give rise to litigation, but in general the purport is clear. Harmless "tipping," if done openly, we assume will not be affected, both because of the word "corruptly," and because of the necessity of obtaining the Attorney-General's consent before instituting a prosecution,—a barrier against frivolous actions. We are glad to note the provision that the expenses of any prosecution shall be defrayed by the Crown, as in the case of an indict. ment for felony,—which removes a burden from the shoulders of the private prosecutor. If the Act is properly enforced it will mean a wholesome revolution in business methods, for the penalties are too severe to be trifled with by the dishonest trader.
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