CORRESPONDING SECRETARY'S REPORT.

White Ribbon, Volume 23, Issue 274, 18 April 1918, Page 9

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY'S REPORT.

The reports from the Branches show that in 1917 the advance made in the previous year was more than maintained. The majority of the Unions appear to have worked most enthusiastically, and with splendid results. The St l ength of the Nation Movement, which was inaugurated with such vigour at the 1017 Convention, and carried on with such success by Mrs Cowie, gave a great stimulus to the Unions. Undoubtedly the tremendous amount of work done by mem!* *s in connection with the den*\.*.d fir six o’clock closing of liquor bars, and the ultimate success of that petition were largely the result of the Strength of the N.it ion Movement. A very direct effect of this campaign was the accession of many new members to our ranks. A large share of the* energies of the Unions was devoted to patriotic work. 'Phis is a feature of all the reports. Some Branches took part in everv patriotic effort to raise funds in their districts, and the* amount of money raised has been very considerable. The speri.il Union effort in this direction made during the year was in connection with the anneal from the Dominion Superintendent of Work Among Seamen for warm clothing and comforts for the mine sweepers. More than usual activity has been shown in educational work—chiefly through public meetings, and the distribution of literature. The year has provided unusual opportunities for both these* departments of work. The Strength of the Nation Campaign, the demand for six o’clock closing, the recommendations of the* Efficiency Board with regird to ihe liquor trade, and the introduction into Parliament of a Social Hygiene Bill have all meant

unusual activity in the organising of public meeting, and in the distribution of literature. Work amongst the young people is a strong feature in the programme of most Unions. Increasing interest seems to be shown in the Cradle Roll Department, and the organisation of F.T.L’s. proceeds apace. One branch —Palmerston North—has no fewer than five L.T.L’s under its care A very large number of Unions endeavour by giving prizes for temperance essays, to ensure the teaching of Scientific Temperance 1 eaching in the public schools. A better organised effort was made this year to secure the appointments of women police patrols. All the l nions supported the demand, but though the majority of the Members of Parliament are in favour of ibis ref of m, the demand was refused by the Government. . , The most interesting special efforts made during the year are those reported b\ Invercargill and Palmerston North. Invercargill District l nion collected the funds to equip the St. Helen’s Hospital, which has been opened in that city, and Palmerston North has established “Willard Hostel” for the wives and frends of soldiers. , , , Three Unions have lapsed; these arc Brightwater, Sheffield, and Alexandra. hive new adult 1 nions have been formed, of these four, viz., Avondale, F.den, Leigh and Pakiri are in the Auckland District, while the fifth Rval Bush—is an auxiliary of Invercargill. The number of active adult Unions is (>5. and three others maintain their financial standing but hold no meetings. The total membership, as recorded by tne I reasurer, is an increase of 688 on the previous year. These returns do not include the “V” Branches, of which there are eleven, an increase of six during the* vear. Ihe new Branches are Auckland (with 10c) members) Avondale, Hawera. Palmerston North (1 <>4 members). Aramoho and Wellington. The total membership is about 500. U must be clear from tlrs summary that our position is stronger than ff has ever bee n before, and we should be able to look forward w ith hope and confidence to our next campaign. Unfortunately, there U more than a hint that the life of Parliament wll be again prolonged. and we shall he robbed of our pall for Prohibition But if such a proposal (toes come before Parliament, every Union, and every individual member, should make the strongest possible protest against anv attempt to rob the people of their rights. C. HF.NPF.RSON. lion. Corresponding Secretary.