STATE TENANTS

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 4, Issue 129, 14 July 1941, Page 5

STATE TENANTS

VOTING IN COUNTIES WAT KA TO COUNCIL DISCUSSION "I cannot see that wc should have any objection to State tenants having a vote for the personnel of tho county- councils," said Mr R. G. Young at a meeting of the Waikato County Council, when a letter on the subject of Government tenant? in countics voting in the local body elections was received from the Auckland Provincial Executive of the Farmers' Union. "I would suggest that we take no action in the matter. I think we should have Parliamenlary franchise rather than property qualification. It is democratic for everyone to have a vote." The letter from the union said tho executive was concerned about the position that might arise. The letteT asked what action the council intended to take. The county clerk, Mr C. F. E. Barton, pointed out that under such a system as Mr Young suggested it would be possible to have a council composed of members whe were not required to pay rates. Mr Young said that ultimately the rating system as. 1 it was known to-day would be abolished. He also pointed out that although the Government owned houses in the counties it did. not have a vote at. the elections. The matter was deferred until th" next meeting.