RIGHTS OF CONSCIENCE

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 728, 30 July 1929, Page 7

RIGHTS OF CONSCIENCE

CITY MINISTERS’ VIEWS REMISSION OF SENTENCES The question of conscientious objection to military training was debated at the monthly meeting of the Auckland Ministers’ Association held yesterday afternoon under the presidency of the Rev. W. Walker. The meeting was fully representative of ministers of the city. By unanimous resolution, the association welcomed the assurance cf the Minister of Justice and Defence that the right of exemption for conscientious objectors was entirely without distinction of denomination. The association felt strongly, however. Lhat no distinction should be made in the matter of exemption from military service between divinity students and other citizens. It is concerned rather with the right of the individual conscience. It was further resolved that while the Defence Act is in force the Government be asked respectfully to take the necessary steps to gazette alternative non-military service after exemption for conscientious objectors through the order of the Governor-iu-Council. With reference to the sentences imposed on Messrs. Richards and Miller, of deprivation of civil rights for ten years, the association respectfully urges that this calls for consideration by the Governor-in-Council, ar.d asks that the sentences be remitted. Copies of the resolutions will be forwarded to the Governor-General, to the Prime Minister and to Auckland members of Parliament.