Seminar On Change To Decimal

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31087, 16 June 1966, Page 9

Seminar On Change To Decimal

The change to decimal currency was an important challenge to the economy of New Zealand, said the Mayor of Christchurch (Mr G. Manning) when he opened a volunteer speakers teach-in seminar at the Horticultural Hall. The seminar has been arranged by the Decimal Currency Board.

Mr Manning said it was important that tile public be acquainted with decimal currency and all its ramifications. “We want as little confusion as possible when the change takes place,” he said. “All the details must be carefully explained to all strata of society.” About 70 representatives from business and community organisations in Nelson, Marlborough, Westland and Canterbury are attending the teach-in seminar, which will end today. Seminars have already been held in Auckland and Wellington this month as part of the Decimal Currency Board's publicity programme. It is planned to establish a core of about 500 qualified speakers who will address groups in their own communities. The final teach-in seminar will begin at Dunedin today. Mr S. L. Moses, chairman of the Decimal Currency Board, said to change over to decimal currency was one of the most intelligent things a country could do. Success would only be achieved by thorough preparation.

Mr Moses said it was an enlightening experience to witness the change to decimal currency in Australia earlier this year. Apart from a few isolated areas where there could have been some improvements, the entire change was a complete success. Had the Government not decided to change to decimal currency, it would have been forced to in time. Manufacturers would be unable to make office equipment especially for New Zealand when the United Kingdom changed to decimal currency in 1971. The secretary of the board (Mr J. N. Searle) said the projected change date, July 10 next year, had been chosen because it was a quiet period for the banking system and school teachers would be able to start instruction on decimal currency at the beginning of the year. Twenty five thousand booklets would be distributed to teachers throughout New Zealand soon. When the seminar ends, trainees will be given certificates to prove that they are Decimal Currency Board sponsored speakers.