Methodists Complain About Parliamentary Secrecy

Chronicle (Levin), 2 September 1949, Page 3

Methodists Complain About Parliamentary Secrecy

Press Association )

(Per

INVERCARGILL, Sept, I. " The action of Parliament in not debating tlie recommendations of the Royal Commissiori on Licensing, drew adverae comment and a strongly worded'motion from the Otago-Southland Synod of the Methodist Chureh today. The Rev. A. H. Ivory (Caversham) drew attention to what he described as a .serious aspect of affairs in the House where members debatod in committee matters concerning the moral welfare of the people. The leaders appeared to be unable to meet criticism, he said. "It was obvious from the Licensing Act debate that the matter had previously been discussed behind closed doors," the Rev. Ivory continued; "This is in direct contravention of the ideals of democracy. It has been described as political chicanery by people better qualified than I am to speak on Parliamentary affairs. The Licensing Rill was rushed through. This has happened again and again on licensing matters. I think it is time to convey to both Parties the chureh 's attitude to such proceedings. " Delegates unanimously passed, the following motion: "The .Synod notes with eoncern the present tendency of Parliament to make questions of moral welfare Pprty matters so that discussion in the House is stifled and important decisions are taken in caueus rather than on the floor of the House. As j evidence of this practice the Synod , instances the manner in which the j Licensing Amendment Act 194S was passed. Important recommendations of the Royal Commission on Licensing which would enable stricter control of the liquor traffie and which were also supported by the churehes and temper- J ance groups, could not be introduced into the House because no member was able to bring forward amendments as , the bi.ll has been declared a Party measure. ' '