DEBATING SOCIETY

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 179, 30 June 1937, Page 6

DEBATING SOCIETY

TROPHY DEBATE HELD. There was a good attendance at the debate between the Palmerston North Literary and debating Society and Massey College, which took place., on Monday in the Y.W.C.A. Club room. Mr T. C. Watson presided and extended a warm welcome to the representatives from Massey College. The debate was the result of a challenge by Massey College' for the Times Challenge Cup.

Mr E. M. Ojala opened the debate for Massey College, who took the affirmative side of the subject, “That Free Trade in Agricultural Produce Between Australia and New Zealand is Desirable.” Air W. M. Huntington, representing the Palmerston North Club, opened for the negative side; 15 minutes was allowed for each of these speakers to state their case. For the affirmative Mr J. Wishart was the second speaker, with Air H. G. Gilmer as third supporter; Air Gilmer was successful in introducing a little humour into the debate. For the negative Air J. S. Horn blow was tho seconder

and delivered the best speech of the evening, while Air P. T. Jamieson was third speaker. Ten minutes were allowed each leader for reply, and Air AY. AI. Huntington made full use of the time allotted; Air Ojala also attacked some vulnerable weaknesses in the negative argument, Rev. F. 8. Ramson acted as .adjudicator and gave his decision in favour of the negative, thus enabling the Palmerston North Club to retain the cup. The marks awarded were: Affirmative 108, negative 234. A very warm vote of thanks was accorded Afr E,unison lor adjudicating. The debate proved most interesting and the hope was expressed that another challenge would be forthcoming at un early date. The evening concluded with light refreshments.