FRIENDLY SOCIETIES’ CONFERENCE.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2137, 12 March 1908, Page 3

FRIENDLY SOCIETIES’ CONFERENCE.

STRONG STATEMENTS BY HIE PRESIDENT.

llnitod Press Association —Copyright (Received' March 11, 8.2 pan.) „ MELBOURNE, ’ March 11. At. the annual conference of the Grand United Order of Oddfellows, Grand Master P.vtey stated that it was the consensus of opinion throughout the Order that drastic reform was necessary if-tho Order was to retain a prominent place among friendly societies. There was scathing discontent at the disorganisation; and disaffection which had arisen I com the burden of heavy levies, to bolster up the abortive, violently expensive, ami antiquated system, that was subversive to every practical, and useful purpose for the betterment of the members. For voars past the tunas had been deuleted, and those who had failed to escape the consequences of their crimes were in prison. Many sick members were unable to got.suk pav, oxcont under severe restrictions, through maladministration neglect and fraud. After 00 years’ work the number of members on the roll steadilv decreasing, and the tnmi onlv £BO.OOO, which the Government Actuary had insisted. was insufficient to meet their liabilities. • l '5 M • ■ the audited balance-sheets of oii t.u lodges and districts had been Hahc, and disclosures came thick and • • -and the fringe of the difficulty had onlv been touched.