SPORTS PROTECTION LEAGUE.

Press, Volume LI, Issue 15338, 23 July 1915, Page 6

SPORTS PROTECTION LEAGUE.

*— SIR, GEORGE CLIFFORD'S ANNUAL REPORT. (special to "the press. ,, ) WELLINGTON. July 22. Sir Georg© Clifford, in his report to the Sports Protection League, points out that it is desirable that where possible tho various branches of the League should endeavour to make themselves useful in supporting local public movements for the creation of recreation grounds and playing areas. The League hag rendered considerable public service by assisting to secure such a magnificent sports ground as is now in course of construction in the Auckland Domain, and for helping to obtain for the public tho valuable grounds and native bush at Day's Bay, Wellington. Similar movements might bo taken up with advantage by other centres. The principle that all recreation grounds not used for private gain should be exempted from local rates lias been strongly and effectively advocated by the League. Most of tho larger centres nave adopted tho principle,' and several branches in localities where the question is becoming of importance are taking steps to secure a remission for the sports bodies interested. With regard to. war taxation, the Leaguo holds it to be its duty to resist unfair impositions. The proposals of the Government are not yet known, but it is hoped that they will not be such as to mark out the sporting community for a special, distinctive, and unfair increase in taxation. The report concludes: — It may bo safolv said that at present there is a good broad-minded feeling throughout the Dominion towards sport. There have howover. at times been published during tlio past year violent attacks upon what we consider our just privileges and although no definite action has been taken to enforce the views expressed, it is necessary that the League should bo maintained in a state of preparedness. To this end tho League asks all persons interested in outdoor sports to nssist in maintaining a, wholesome public feeling towards o ur national pastimes."