PERMIT GRANTED

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 9, Issue 23, 13 November 1945, Page 5

PERMIT GRANTED

PICTURES ON CHRISTMAS DAY

COUNCIL SHARPLY DIVIDED

The application of the Manage; of the Regent Theatre to screen the picture 'The Desert Song' on Christmas Day ? resulted in a sharp division in the Korough Council last evening when it was finally decided to grant the usual permission on the. Mayors casting vote only.

Cr Sullivan who lias always, strenuously opposed the permit said that iie objected to any person being' permitted to run their normal business for profit-making on Christmas Day. No one else was able, to do so and apart from tliat aspect he did not hold with the Council making the decision. It should be fixed by liaiw. There was no indication that the profits would be devoted to some deserving cause and in any case there was no demand from the public far the pictures—it came from the man. agement of the theatre.

Cr Canning in seconding said he failed to see why theatre employees should not lie given a holiday as well as anyone else.

Cr Spring was also in strong support citing the general trenid away from Christian teachings and condemning the. showing of„pictures as detracting from the significance of

the day. Cr Creeke disagreed. "If I vpted against this request I would be th'e biggest Jiypocrit in shoe leather '* he said. "What do we see on thfi ordinary Sunday—our citizens playing bowls cricket, golf—even some of our councillors." He cited the ■usual procedure on Christmas Day when whole families w r ent to the beach or to the Heads and there enjoyed themselves bathing and swimming. If a certain section wanted to have a few hours quiet entertainment in the theatre; he failed to see that they were doings any -harm. Those of a more religious persuasion could stay at home.

The Mayor said he felt the same way and on putting the motion to the meeting it was dccided to grant permission by the narrow margin described.