Contempt for directing magistrates to ignore binding precedent was upheld despite later apologies.

Directing Magistrates to disregard a binding High Court decision and to follow a contrary view until the matter could be taken further was treated as contempt of court because it undermined obedience to judicial authority and interfered with the administration of justice. The endorsement was issued in the face of an existing binding ruling, and the later tender of apologies did not remove the seriousness of the conduct. The contempt finding, together with the admonition and costs, was upheld.

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Issues: Whether the appellant's endorsement directing Magistrates to ignore a binding High Court decision amounted to contempt of court and justified the admonition and costs imposed.

Analysis: The endorsement circulated an opinion that no special authorization was necessary under section 20 of the Cattle Trespass Act and expressly directed that this view be followed until the matter could be taken to the High Court, notwithstanding an existing High Court decision holding otherwise. The direction was issued in the face of a binding judicial decision and was capable of undermining respect for and obedience to the court's authority. Such conduct was treated as a direct interference with the administration of justice. The fact that apologies were tendered did not erase the gravity of the act.

Conclusion: The appellant was rightly held guilty of contempt of court, and the admonition together with the order for costs was upheld.

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