DEBATING SOCIETY

Motueka Star, Volume II, Issue 77, 9 May 1902, Page 5

DEBATING SOCIETY

A meeting called for the purpose of recussitating the old Debating Society, which on the Bth of January, 1895, decided to wind and hand the* balance to credit over to the Motueka Brass Band, was held in the chnrch England school room last evening. There was a fair attendance of the public, the being well represented. Mr H. E. Gilbert was called to the chair and explained that a number of residents had -a short time before discussed the subject and had decided to call a preliminary meeting to start a Literary and Debating Society in our midst, the object of such society being Jio discuss subjects of general interest, *Lnd also to set aside certain nights for ectures, essays, etc. The Chairman gave a short account of the lines upon which the old society was carried on. Rev Mr Wills advocated the establishment of a society similar to the old one. It was resolved, on the motion Jof Mr Wilkes, seconded by the Rev. Mr Wills, That a Society be started to be called The Motueka Literary and Debating Society. Mr , Harris suggested proceeding with the election of officers without delay, in order that the practical work of the society may be begun at the next meeting. It was decided that the officers be as follows: —President, two Vice Presidents, Secretary and Treasurer. Mr T. A. Harris was unanimously elected the first President ; Revs. Johnston and Wills Vice Presidents; Wilkes, Secretary ; Gilbert, Treasurer; and Misses Hughes, Johnston, Messrs Manoy, W. Moffatt and Symesa committee, the officers to be ex-officio members. It was resolved That the committee meet forthwith to draw up constitution, etc., and to meet the Institute committee to arrange for affilliation, if possible. It was agreed that the fir t debate should be “That full political rights be extended to women.” Mr Harris to affirm, and Mr Wills to oppose.