The Hokitika Guardian SATURDAY, FEB. 4th, 1922. THE WEEK.

Hokitika Guardian, 4 February 1922, Page 2

The Hokitika Guardian SATURDAY, FEB. 4th, 1922. THE WEEK.

The greatest tragedy of modem times is revealed in the plight of Russia. Reports have been coming to band now for a very long time indicating the extremities of the people, but the official report of Dr Nanßen confirms the worst yet told of the awful conditions of the people. The explorer reports that death and famine now menace nineteen million Russians. Of these several millions must inevitably die. And by the depeopling of Russia “one of Europe’s greatest granaries” would become a depopulated desert —a waste land. The plight of Russia k a confirmation of the cupidity of tho race. Russia under its ruler of pre-war duys presented many horrors, but following the evolution, Russia has outdone herself, and the horrors now are appalling. Yet the world is trying to do its best to succour the desperate straits of tho peoplo, bjut the help has bejjm spasmodic, and unless it is quickly organised, it will be too late to save millions It may be difficult f°r us to realise the figures, but if we think that New Zealand counts but a little over a million, the number of people immediately affected in Russia, are eighteen times our population. New Zealand’s population is thus one-eighteenth part of the whole menaced in Russia. So great a cataclysm—the wiping out of a nation—appeals to the generosity of the world. Efforts are being made to find money for food for the starving people. Here is a case where if all would help quickly, some relief would be given speedily, and the famine conditions relieved somewhat. The Mayor has intimated hi» intention of open-,

ing a local list, and if this wiere done no doubt there would be a ready response to help in such dire circum- . stances. Through her representative at the Washington Conference, France has been endeavouring to make her case good before all the world, regarding her stand on the submarine question. France lias a strong desire to maintain submarines as an integral part oi her naval defence policy. Britain ,anu others prefer to scrap the submarines for after all they may be put to diabolical uses in warfare. They are the unknown quantity, to appear where least expected and to strike at

the unwary in cold blooded style. Submarine warfare is hitting below the belt—like the use of poison gas. They are evilly applied adjuncts of warfare and might well be tabooed. Just as there arc the acecptod rules of the ring in a fight to be observed, so there might well be, for humanity’s sake, rules of war, and in the making of these submarines can well bo left out of the reckoning. Britain, the accepted mistress of the seas, is we'll disi posed to omit submarines, and France might well have been chivalrous, and followed Britain’s lead. After all it was the British Navy which did so much for France on the high seas in the great war, and if the British naval judgment favors the extinguishment of submarines, France should have .no qualms about following suit. The French representative seemed to be vain enough to think that because of the French for submarines the British coa6t was not going to bo menaced. That is too amusing to analyse. To Britain must be given the fullest credit for the effort to eliminate /the submarine from naval whrtfare, disclosing at once the humanity which has always prompted the British Navy in its defensive policy.

The indications are that there will not be any railway strike. There i s a Split in the camps of the rival railway organisations, and like the Triple Alliance at Home, these splits are fatal to the success of a strike. It is well that this initial weakness should assert itself so soon. The railwaymen generally will the quicker be disillusioned as to their prospects of succes s U v holding a pistol to the head of the public, and demanding what the business managers of the country’s affairs say is not there to pay fjhem. Mr Massey has forced through his Retrenchment Bill which he intends to modify as far as 'he can. It is very

much to bo feared that the ultimate modification will bo very trifling. The whole position of salaries—like public works—is governed by the money available. We have seen this week how the Estimates for public works have been cut down so that the dimensions of the

garment will be in accordance with the cloth available. And the public have accepted the Estimates very quietly. It was inevitably neessary to so accept the curtailment. The same economy has to be practiced in regard to salaries they have got to c ome down in keeping with resources. And the Civil Service is going to accept the portion loyally. There is a good deal of talk and much newspaper reporting of anticut meetings, but we learn from high officials in the service that the rank and file in the aggregate is accepting the position on the merits of the case, and realising if salaries are not reduced then posts must be vacated and many hundreds of civil servants would bo turned into tho streets and join the ranks of the unemployed, which, unfortunately is again growing.

The desire to amend the Licensing Act has been expressed by a parliamentary committeo reported to tho House this week. Reform in that direction is long overdue, and it will be a good thing if the recommendation of the Committee receives effect and a new bill is drafted in the recess for the consideration of Parliament next session. The licensing issue 'has long passed out of party politics, and a mixed committee of the House could doubtless produce a measure which would prove of ultimate value to the country. One of the crying needs throughout the Dominion is more accommodation for the travelling public in the various centre*. ,There is hardly a town of any pretentions which is not short supplied in the matter of hotel accommodation. ,A» a . result of this fact hotel tariffs’ have gone up, and the public are paying dearly for the congestion generally prevalent. The proprietors of the inns in reply to questions why more accommodation is not provided, invariably state that tho insecurity of the license tenure does not warrant the outlay of thousands of pounds involved in building and furnishing. If better and larger accommodation is to be assured the public, combined with a cheaper boarding tariff, the intervals between licensing polls require ito- be extended Every three years is far too short a period to justify extensive building schemes and Parliament in interests of the public chiefly require to give this aspect attention. A longer term should be provided and then with security of tenure subject to good conduct, a licensee would cater bettor for the public. Also there would be a better observance of the licensing laws, and with fewer breaches under that head, there would bo the feeling that at last the axiom of the greatest good;

( for the greatest number would become w self-evident. t( b( Sir Francis. Bell is about to set out sc on a holiday jaunt to England. He was j d to have departed a year ago, and all t' arrangements to that end were complet- o; ed. Circumstnces suddenly arose which e: demanded Mr Hussey’s presence in b England, and to let the Prime Minis- ti ter away, Sir Francis elected to stay * and be the acting-Premier. It was a p very gracious act on the part of Sir o Francis, who is without doubt the ab- t lest man on the Reform side in politics. \ Sir Francis discharged his duties well, r He is always frankness itself, and it t was not long after Mr Massey’s departure before he told the count]y its financial cupboard was bare. Sir Fran- i cis actually began the task of retrenchment which Mr Massey baulked, and ior this courage he is entitled to credit. < lie has proved an able and astute lea- I dor of the Upper House, where his maIna is supreme—for he dominates the | Chamber. He is a tower of strength ] to the Government in that quarter, and , he, will be greatly missed. On the eve 'of Sir Francis’ departure the parlia- ] I mentary members met to felicitate him on his approaching holiday and to make ( a presentation as an expression of personal goodwill. Sir Francis Bell plays l a. prominent part in the government of this country and his great abilities , have been at the service of the Do- i minion readily. We do not always appreciate the policy of Sir Francis, but all apprecise 'his purpose according to , his lights. By that we mean his per- j sonal sincerity, and if he would he in j less conservative and more liberal in the dogmatic policy lie pursues he would have more friends. However, all appreciate him for his personal work, and will join in wishing him a pleasant holiday, a safe return, and if we may say so, a wider outlook. The influence of Mr Seddon M.P., seems to have been used to sofne goou

effect in regard to vital matters pertaining to the Forests Bill. As was explained previously the Forest Service seemed bent on raiding the sawmillers’ reservations and an amendment was slipped into the Forests Bill without notice at the last moment. The bill, lidwever, passed with the dangerous amendment. When the position was discovered a protest v T as raised at once and Mr Seddon secured from Sir F. D. Bell a promise that the position would be reviewed. Mr Seddon then drafted a new sub-clause to meet the position in which the sawmillers threatened to bo placed and it now seems reasonable to expect that the new clause (though not wholly satisfactory) will be accepted and be added to the bill which in the near future will become law. It is very satisfactory to find that the position was watched so cl° se b' all d all concerned are to congratulated on the results so far attending the timely intervention. It is to be hoped Mr Seddon will be equally successful in his efforts to secure revenue for the local bodies in respect to the depredations made by the Forest Service on the timber country. The matter has not es-

eaped the attention of the Member for Westland, who has kept the subject constantly before the Government, and as a result it is understood that the question of securing revenue to the local bodies will be dealt with under the Finance Bill, a measure which Mr Massey has promised will come before Parliament prior to its close next week, l't is not known what measure of relief will be given the local bodies, but it is at least satisfactory to know the principle of the payment has been recognised, and if the allocation is not satisfactory those conecrned can watch a favourable opportunity to press for an increase.

The hearty ceremonial in Bellamy’s this week as a tribute to the Member for Westland, w r as likewise a compliment to the electorate which will be appreciated by the electors generally. In that incident we seem to get a clue to , the course of events referred to in the preceding paragraph where reference was made to Mr Seddon’s personal influence. Be that as it may there is no doubt as to the porsonal popularity of the Member for Westland, not alone with his fellow parliamentarians, but also with the principals of the various Departments of the Public Service. Mr Seddon like the legendary Father O’Flynn, has a way “wid” him, that capture*. In the function recorded by the Press Association message it will be noticed that all shades of opinion in Parliament 'heartily felicitated Mr Seddon on his approaching marriage, and no doubt his constituents will take equal pleasure when opportunity offers to likewise extend congratulations no less hearty and sincere. Mr Seddon has had an unbroken stay in Parliament. He lias Member for Westland since the fateful yea r of 1906, and although a new generation of electors has come into being, and the confines of the electorate itself has extended bringing in fresh edectors, Mr Seddon has continued the choice of the people. He holds his popularity deservedly, and it is the key to the influence he wields in high places. Westland has many pleasant recollections of his useful efforts on behalf of the district, and the happy event now transpiring in Mr Seddon’s life is likely more than ever to bind the affections of the peo-, pie more and more to a practical appreciation of his excellent qualitios as a worthy representative.

‘‘Hokitika Scores again” was the caption in a northern newspaper this week The press in the neighbouring town has of late turned a good deal of lime light on to Hokitika and its achievements. Needless to say the achievements have been always creditable. In the present instance it is a matter of organising farmers’ tuition classes for the benefit of the community and the Progress League has selected Hokitika as a centre for the operations. This matter is but consummated now. Last year tin* local Progress League moved in the matter, and had its class ready practically for the instructions and lectures. Unfortunately the arrangements broke down in Canterbury. The matter is now arranged and the classes will take place this year. Hokitika is moving in these matters purely as a duty owing to the town and district. Farming pursuits must continue to flourish and by helping those on the land, the quicker will come the crowning success. The game of life is one in which all can play, and we venture to think that with its larger and more compact population, the northern town could do much better, than Hokitika if it

vould make the effort. Th 0 northern ;own should not begrudge what may ta >e done here by its citizens, but rather is: :eek to participate in the bettering conlitions created. The only rivalry be- ' tween the two towns, should be that jf friendly competition—and that is ?ssentially the life of business. Each Ijas its resources and it is focr each c to develope those resources along lines a i which will be for the public weal, and profit. Hokitika has felt its isolation over many years. There are high hopes ‘ that isolation will soon melt away. When it does Hokitika needs to be “ ready for the better times whi"h will 0 then be within grasp.

Thu entries i'or the fat stock sale at fj Arahura appear in this issue. t The monthly meeting of the Westland Chamber of Commerce takes place on Tuesday next at 7.30 o’clock. Presbyterians at Ivokatahi are reminded of the service on Thursday night at 8 o’clock. < Messrs W. Jeffries nd Co. offer for I private sale 30 two-tooth Romney rams i bred by A. W. Adams, Esq. of Sheffield. A salej of military stores will commence at Wellington on 6th Feb. Full particulars can be obtained at any post ’ office. ! The Municipal Band will render a ! musical programme at the Westland Hospital to-morrow afternoon com- , mencing at 2.45 p.m. ( Parliament is expected to conclude early next week. Parliament will meet again in less than five months’ time for the final session of the present Parlia- i ment. j After to-day the Westland County | Council adds ten per cent, to all un- | paid County rates, and if rates with the |; penalty are not paid immediately, do- j faulting ratepayers will be sued without further notice. ;

In the House yesterday the Local Bodies Empowering Bid was amended to authorise payment by the Crown to the Greymouth Harbour Board of £2500 for land taken for railway purposes opposite Mawhera Quay.

Mr Tom Pollard who was in town yesterday, mentioned the Diggers’ Costume Comedy Company would be paying a visit to Hokiika about the 15th and 16th inst. Mr Pollard mentioned also that the picture to bo shown at the Princess Theatre on Monday night, the screen story of “The Last of the Mohicans,” was an exceptionally fine picture by a good company with a strong lead.

Wear “H. 8.” Footwear! but think about purchasing now! Read about these values, they’re astounding: Ladies court shoes, patent and glace, 27s 6d, 29s 6d, 32s ‘6d; women’s derby shoes 23s 6d, 27s 6d; nigger brown Oxfords, 29s 6d; men’s derby boots, black or ten. 27s Cult brogue shoes. 355; willow calf shoes. 37s 6d; men’s heel and toe plate boots 26s fid at the N.Z. Clothing Factory.—Ad vt.

Mice have assailed the community in thousands (states a Warren message to the Sydney “Sun”). The damage is considerable. Fruit and vegetable gardens have lieen eaten out, while indoors household linen, bedding, clothing, food, and practically everything within reach have been eaten or damaged.’ Even little chickens nestling under their mothers’ wings have fallen victims. Cats have tired of killing them, and mouse-traps are at a premium.

. The schools re-open on February 6th. next. Now is the time for parents to think about the school outfits. H.B. can supply school outfits that will give the best service. School hose, 3s 6d to 5s lid.; school shirts, 4s lid and 5s lid; school pants 6s lid and 7s lid; school jerseys 7s to 10s 6d; school ties Is 3d; school hats, washing, Is lid; school varsity suits, 19s 6d; school boots, all sizes at the N.Z. Clothing Factory.—Advt.

“I would do away with every sweetshop in the kingdom and so stop this pernicious habit of sweet-eating.” Dr Harry Campbell made this—for the young folk and for the ladies—alarming statement at a lecture at the Institute of Hygiene in London. The reason of his antipathy to the sweetshop, he explained, was that so many diseases follow teeth trouble, which was considerably induced by eating sweets. “We have the worst teeth and jaws in the world,” he said, “due in great measure to our insistence on taking the whole of our farinaceous food in a spongy or pappy form.” “Stop this eternal British pudding,” said Dr Campbell, “and give children crusty bread, with plenty of butter on it. It has the same nutritive value as suet pudding, and exercises the jaws as they should be exercised.” The Companies’ Temporary Empowering Bill proposes to enable companies, holding fisting deposits, to create a specific class of deposit preference shares, which a company can specifically exchange with depositors for existing deposits, and for a period of five years from the commencement of the Act a company shall be entitled to deduct from its' assessable income the dividend payable to deposit preference shareholders in the same manner as it is now entitled to deduct interest paid to depositors. Holders of the deposit preference shares will pay income tax on their dividends. Nothing in the Act shall be deemed to empower a company, to so create preference shares as shall have priority to or rank, pari passu, with any other preference shares of a company theretofore created. Deposit preference shares shall not be issued otherwise than to depositors, in. excliance for existing deposits or •part thereof.