PEACE MEMORIALS

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 192, 9 May 1919, Page 6

PEACE MEMORIALS

POWERS OP LOCAL BODIES.

The expenditure of moneys on peace momorinls by local bodies was referred to by the Hon. G. W. Russell in a statement to u reporter yesterday. "The question has beon raised," said the Minister, "as to tho erection) oi memorials of peace, and the matter' has been considered with a view to the issuing of a circular to local bodies ns to their powers. It may bo'stated that local bodies, especially borough councils, have ajready wide powers regarding the expenditure of monoys on such objects as baths, pleasure-grounds) gardens, libraries, museums, and so on. There doesnot appear to be any .power under the law for the expenditure of money on statues, fountains, or things of .this kind. Consequently it appears desirable that tho operation of the law should bb widened, and the Government proposes to bring down legislation enabling local bodies to expend moneys for any pudposo connected with tho celebrations of peace, and on war memorials, subject to the proviso that-np moneys required'by law be used for a specific purpose shall be used for these other purposes. Authority will also bo given to local bodies to borrow monoy for the erection of memorials, subject in every case to a poll of the ratepayers. Ainongsi tho things that aro recommended as peace memorials are town halls, libraries, swimming-bath's, fountains, avenues of trees, band rotundas, parks, recreation grounds, and statues. ' Legislation will bo providod. to enable expenditure to bo made for such purposes."