ART UNIONS

Hokitika Guardian, 25 March 1926, Page 4

ART UNIONS

COMPLAINTS TO MINISTER

DUNEDIN, March 23. A deputation representing the Council of Christian Congregations on Mr Bollard, Minister of Internal* Affairs, and asked for the application as soon as possible of the limit of £SOO fixed as prize money in art unions. The deputation also suggested that the opinion of the Attorney-Gen-eral should ha obtained on the legality of the payment of prizes in cash instead of actual mineral specimens.

One speaker referred to the danger to morals caused by the development of the gambling spirit.

The Rev. Tullooli Ynille stated that opinions had boon obtained by the council on the law. Tt was assured that those organising art unions on the present system were breaking the law. It was also felt that the strict application of the law would not allow tickets to be sent through the post.

Mr Bollard replied that the class of art union in which prizes were paid by cheque was operating long before he assumed office. In connection with the Dunedin art union be found that £30,000 worth of tickets was sold The expenses amounted to half that sum. He saw plainly that they were going to make a sort of Tattersall’s sweep, and decided to put his foot down. Unfortunately many applications were in before lie had decided to limit the prizes to £SOO. That was the position regarding a permit that the gold dust should he in possession of the hank. If he found that the £SOO limit was abused be would, reduce it by Imlf. Before the limit was exposed several applications were in and as oneb bad to wait for gold dust, it would take time to work off. He would give them till Mareb. 1927.

The Minister also stated that he would prohibit the broadcasting of books of tickets.