ELTHAM.

Taranaki Daily News, 23 November 1920, Page 7

ELTHAM.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) j The meeting of shopkeepers arranged by the Eltham Chamber of Commerce was _ well attended. A lengthy discussion took place over the motion moved by the president, Mr. I. J. Bridger, "That it be a recommendation to the shopkeepers of Eltham that the business hours of the town during the summer months (October to April inclusive) close at 9 o'clock on Saturday evenings and at 8.30 during the remaining five months." Mr. J. McKay, representing Mr. Wilkinson,' said that his firm was in favor of the closing hour being fixed at 8 o'clock, but afi a compromise he moved aa pmendment fixing the closing time at 8.30. Mr. Smallcy. in seconding this amendment, reminded his hearers that their employees deserved consideration, and he was in favor of shortening the hours. Mr. Carman moved a further amendment: "That the hours to be observed for the closing of the shops of the town be 12 o'clock noon on Thursdays. 0 o'clock on Saturdays, and 5.30 on other •days." Both amendments were lost on being put, and the original motion was then put and carried. The question of the weekly half-holi-day was raised, and it was strongly urged that all towns in Taranaki should fall into line and agree upon one early closing day ' for the whole county. It was stated that the various sports organisations favored a Saturday halfholiday, which had been adopted by Wellington, Auckland; Palmerston North' and Feilding. Eventually the motion, moved by Mr. A. W. Holder, was carried: "That this meeting is in fa'vor of a provincial Saturday lialf-holiday."* Mr. Belcher has been unanimously re-elected ' chairman of the Eltham County Cdtmcil. ■. The .clerk stated that under the new Counties Act the chairman's present term of office would expire in May next. Mr. Belcher, in returning thanks, said that lie would continue to do his best for the Eltham County, of which lie was very proud. He was pleased to see so many members of the late Council at their old places at the table. The Bowling Club has reversed its previous decision at the request of the Tnranaki Bowling Centre, and has entered the lists for the banner competition.