CONVERSION OF CARS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 59, Issue 129, 14 March 1939, Page 2

CONVERSION OF CARS.

QUESTION OF PUNISHMENT. DISCUSSION BY MOTORISTS. ■ £ (Per Press Association). NELSON, March 13. The problem of car conversion came before the half-yearly meeting of the South Island Motor Union when the Southland delegate introduced a motion dealing with the conversion of cars: “That in view of the increasing number of Borstal escapees who convert cars and frequently cause extensive damage, the South Island Motor Union make representations to the Minister for Justive asking that steps be taken to check such escapes, and that the North Island Motor Union be asked to collaborate.” ' Mr J. Palliser (South Canterbury) seconded the motion. Mr A. Grayson (North Island Motor Union) asked that the motion be widened to extend to other types of car conversions, and to a Dominion point of view. He would like the South Island Union to make representations to the Minister on all car conversions. The chairman said the Minister had already been approached on the general question of conversions. Mr J. R. Leggo (Nelson) said he thought their appeal should be to the Magistracy to deal with offenders more severely. The chairman (Mr W. R. Carey) said it was a. question of conversion or theft, and the heading under which car converters were charged was a generous one. Motorists had reason to be apprehensive. Mr J. S. Hawkes (a member of tho executive) said there was the further question of the safety of . road users, as many of these young offenders could not drive properly. Dr. S. A. Gibbs (Nelson), a vicepresident, moved an amendment that in conjunction with the North Island Union, further representations be made to the Ministers for Justice and for Transport about the "illegal conversion of motor vehicles, and that their attention be drawn to the participation in these offences of escapees from Government reformative institutions. Mr McClelland: Suppose we ask that the term “conversion” be abolished and make it straightout theft? Dr. Gibbs: They will not agree to it. The motion was carried.