No. 48
18th March 1867
My Lord,
I have the honor to forward a letter addressed by Mr Needham, late Chief Justice of Vancouver Island (but still enjoying the emoluments of the Office) for "compensation"forManuscript image for conducting the Commission issued by the late Governor to enquire into the causes leading to the loss of the Mail Steamer "Labouchere." I add a report on the application furnished by Mr Young, late Colonial Secretary of Vancouver Island.
2. It appears that the application was not made during the Governorship of my predecessor who directed the enquiry to be made. I have informed Mr NeedhamthatManuscript image that I have referred the matter for Your Lordship's consideration.
I have the honor to be,
My Lord,
Your most obedient
humble Servant
Frederick Seymour
Minutes by CO staff
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Sir F. Rogers
As Capt: Kennedy issued the Commission for this enquiry he might be consulted on the question of compensation to the Chief Justice before any final instructions are given?
VJ 8 May
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I think that it is hardly becoming in a well-paid Chief Justice to apply for separate remuneration for an inquiry into the loss of a ship, and that to assent would establish a bad precedent.
Stipendiary Magistrates are continually engaged in such inquiries, and most assuredly any claim from them for special payment would be condemned. Chief Justice Needham's two Naval Assessors were refused any extra-pay, and I think that he should also be refused.
I shd not refer to Capn Kennedy, as it is a matter of general principle, on which the proper Judge is the Secy of State.
TFE 21 May
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Unless it was treated by Kennedy as a Special Commissn which would have appeared before I agree with Mr Elliot. But still think it worth while getting the facts first from Kennedy.
Enquire facts from Cap. Kennedy.
Documents enclosed with the main document (not transcribed)
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Needham to W.A.G. Young, 27 December 1867, requesting compensation as per despatch.
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Memorandum, W.A.G. Young, no date, commenting on application and providing details of the commission.
Other documents included in the file
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Rogers to Kennedy, 31 May 1867, forwarding copy of the despatch and requesting further information on the case.