ELECTION POLICY

Evening Post, Volume CXXXVI, Issue 55, 2 September 1943, Page 6

ELECTION POLICY

A SOCIETY'S ATTITUDE

, The following: resolution was passed by "a recent meeting of the national executive of the New Zealand Society for/ Closer Relations with Russia:—

■ "The New Zealand General Elections, which are to be held shortly, make it necessary • and timely' that the New Zealand Society for Closer' Relations with Russia should emphasise its nonpartisan character, so far as politics are" concerned. The objects of the society are, briefly, to foster closer relations;' with the Soviet Union in all fields-r-economic, cultural, diplomatic, etc.. and to unite with the Soviet Union "for the;defeat of Fascism. Membership ,of the society is open to. all who subscribe to these objects, and membership conditions are very simple because of\ the common purpose we have in view.' ; ■■

"Our national executive has an Independent member of Parliament as president, and also an independent member .of .high, standing in Parliament as vice-president.-. The executive includes prominent and active members of the official Labour Party, Democratic Labour Party, and Communist Party, and of no party, all united in the Society for Closer Relations with Russia- for a common purpose. The membership and officials of branches throughout the country are of the same character. .<

"Therefore the society again repeats that it is entirely a matter for each individual member what attitude.and activities he pursues in New Zealand politics. We do not restrict the rights of any member or official in any waiy. Neither do we. take any responsibility, for their actions. We expect of all members that they will in no way in-( volye the society in their own political activity. The membership of thife society is united for a common purpose and that purpose can best be served by each member and official uniting with all other political elements to this end."