Minutes of previous meeting read and confirmed.

Constable Dowling's examination resumed and concluded.

Constable Falkener examined.

The Commission then sat with closed doors.

Communication, as follows, from Acting Under-Secretary was read:—

Sir,—I am desired by the Chief Secretary to state that he will be glad if the Commission will submit separately, and at their earliest convenience, such of their recommendations as have reference to Mr. O'Connor and the black trackers under him, as in the projected re-organization of the police arrangements for the North-Eastern district it may be found necessary that Mr. O'Connor should be re-appointed.

I have, &c.,

(Signed) T. R. WILSON, Acting Under-Secretary.

The Chairman in explanation of the above, stated that he and Mr Anderson had waited on the Chief Secretary, in accordance with the resolution of the Commission on the Thursday previously. They had expressed surprise that Mr O’Connor should have received an appointment in the Victorian police while his case as well as that of other police officers was sub judice, as he (Mr O’Connor) has made serious charges against officers of the force, and they had made serious charges against him. The Chief Secretary, in reply, informed the deputation that no appointment had been made, and that he would not make any without the concurrence of the Commission. Until a progress report respecting Mr O’Connor had been sent in, nothing would be done.

At the same time he (Mr Berry) expressed a desire that the Commission should expedite their investigation upon that point, namely, Mr O’Connor’s connection with the pursuit of the Kellys, so that, if deemed desirable, he might be appointed second in command in the North-Eastern district, in charge of the black trackers, he having been considered the best adapted for that service.

The Chief Secretary had given the assurance that no appointment under existing circumstances would be made without the approval of the Commission, and he expressed surprise upon seeing the announcement made in the newspapers of Mr O’Connor’s appointment

Moved by Mr Dixon, seconded by Mr. Gibb—

Resolved — That the Secretary communicate with the Acting Chief Commissioner of Police requesting him to forward to the Commission his report upon the state of the North-Eastern district submitted to the Honorable the Chief Secretary; also all documents in his possession or obtainable having relation to the projected appointment of Mr O’Connor to the position of second in command in the North-Eastern district. …..

The meeting adjourned until the following day 11/5/81