Correspondent Accused of Rash Statements

Radio Record, Volume VIII, Issue 36, 15 March 1935, Page 50

Correspondent Accused of Rash Statements

To the Editor Sir.-I heard Margaret: Macpherson’s talk on Monte Carlo from 3Y.A, in the course of which she stated that Pope Pius XIII (not, I think, Pope Leo XIII) was one of the original shareholders in that gambling business. Your correspondent, J. B. Smith, objects to this mention of an historical fact, but a simple inquiry as to the authority for the statement would surely be more to the point than a hasty objection under the guise of a challenge. Margaret Macpherson has already given her authority in a Christchurch newspaper in answer to a correspondent, and I do not doubt that she will reply similarly here. The further letters in that series of correspondence, by the way, gave evidence of her popularity as a radio speaker. It is another historical fact that until recently at least one Anglican Bishop in England was a shareholder in an armament firm. It is also known that part of the moneys of the urban dioeeses of the Anglican Church in Englanod was derived from rents of slum properties. The broadcasting of facts such as these should bave no effect on the religious beliefs of members of the’ various communions, for it must be recognisad that internretations of the

social implications of Christianity are changing, that standards of morality are numerous, and that it would consequently be dangerous to-pin one’s faith on the actions or beliefs of any earthly leaders of any church. We should judge not, but we may differ, and surely must not suppress the truth. Margaret Macpherson’s talks over the air are always interesting and her diction and delivery are models for any speaker Whenever possible I listen ro her addresses, being of the opinion that she is one of the best radio speakers in New Zealand. For J. B. B. Smith to make rash statements that "I can visualise thousands of switches throughout New Zealand go up on the announcement of Margaret Macpherson’s name" is, in the circumstances. rather childish and a little unfair, savouring of persecution for religious views where such are not expressed. I hope to hear that J. B. B. Smith either misunderstood the lecturer or wrote without reflecting on the triviality and injustice of his complaint.-I am. etc..

L. G.

HENDERSON

Christchurch.