SPECIAL TROTTING MEETINGS

Hokitika Guardian, 27 June 1930, Page 1

SPECIAL TROTTING MEETINGS

DISAPPROVED BY CHURCHES

AUCKLAND, June 24

The decision of the Government to authorise special trotting meetings to raise funds for the relief of the unemployed was criticised at a meeting of the Auckland Council of Cliristain Congregations last evening. The following motion by the Rev Dr J J. Nortli was carried: “That the Alinister had renewed the lottery system without any mandate to do so, in spite o'f evidence of prodigality and abuse which caused’ the Coates Govern ment to suppress it. This action is directly opposed to the interests of a nation encountering grave financial stringency. The Hon P. A. de la Parrelle had granted special racing permits to raise money for the . relief of unemployment. Inasmuch as special race meetings are a grevious wrong to the business community and are a most extravagant method of raising money, and inasmuch as they mingle charity with recognised vice, the Council is of opinion that the Alinister lias rendered a distinct disservice to his country.”

it was decided to forward copies of the resolution to the Prime Minister and the Hon P. A. de la Perrelle.

Another resolution dealing with the gravity of unemployment and sympathising with the difficulties of the Auckland Hospital Board was also adopted. The resolution stated: ‘‘Since it is generally recognised that unemployment is due to business depression, the council suggests that a proposal for two days’ racing, which interferes with business and diverts money into unproductive channels, is unsound. The council therefore regrets that the Hospital Board and the City Council should be involved in such a proposal.”