DEBATING SOCIETY.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXIII, Issue 1002, 8 June 1911, Page 3

DEBATING SOCIETY.

The first debate under the auspices of the local Literary and Debating Society took place in the Presbyterian Hall on Tuesday night. There was a good attendance, including one female. It is hoped, by the way, that the ladies will avail themselves of the opportunity of listening to the words of wisdom which fall from the lips of the sterner sex, and seeing that the ladies enjoy the franchise, there is no reason why they should not justify the wisdom of our legislation. It Is hoped, therefore, that the ladies will attend luture debates, if not to take part in them, at least that their presence may have a mellowing influence upon the speakers. Owing to the unavoidable absence of Mr Greig, Mr Hornblow occupied the chair. The debate was : ‘'ls compulsory military tiaiuing necessary in New Zealand ?” Mr Gabites championed the affirmative, and the Rev Mr Aitken the negative. The speakers were ranged in seats opposite each other. Some of the speakers were suffering Irom a lack of confidence and could easily be distinguished from the “older bands.” Those who spoke for the affirmative were :

Messrs Gabites, C. Speirs, Wilson, J. Ross, Claris, Dr. Mandl and Huntley; and for negative : Messrs Rev Aitkeu, Gibbs, Chrystall and Dr. Adams. The openers were allowed 15 minutes each and 10 minutes for reply, other speakers five minutes.' Upon the question being put ro the vote of the meeting affirmative side carried the day with a margin of two votes. A vote of thanks to the chair concluned a very enjoyable and instructive meeting.

Next Tuesday night a mock Borough Council meeting will be held which should attract a bumper house.