A MATTER OF DISTINCTIONS

Taihape Daily Times, 12 November 1918, Page 7

A MATTER OF DISTINCTIONS

“1 regret that a certain kind of disstinction has been introduced into New Zealand during the past twelve months 7 ’ said Mr C. E. Statham (Dunedin Central), in the House of Representatives on Wednesday night. “I regret that the Government did not do what the Canadian Government did and say that they did not want any honours granted in this country without their consent I am not against any honours being taken by people in this country. I believe the Prime Minister would be justified in taking a knighthood—l should like to see him do it. He is worthy of the I think.” Mr Statham added that honours had been bestowed on some people for war work which they ought to have been delighted to do for nothing, as they had plenty of spare time in which to do it. Certain people had been picked out for and thus invidious distinctions had been made. The whole thing was to be deplored. Some of those who were honoured were paid servants of the Government. A member: Who made the representations? Mr. Statham: I do not know, but that is a thing I should like the Government to explain.