PROBLEM OF LABOUR PARTY FINANCE

Press, Volume C, Issue 29509, 10 May 1961, Page 16

PROBLEM OF LABOUR PARTY FINANCE

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, May 9. A systematic sustained approach to the problem of financing the operations and election campaigns of the New Zealand Labour Party must be considered by the annual conference, said the national secretary (Mr A. J. McDonald) in presenting the report of the national executive. “Over the years the National Party, with ample funds at its command, has built up a most efficient organisation in all electorates,” said Mr McDonald. “It employs an army of paid officials within the local areas under the control of its five divisions, and a large staff attached to the head office of the party. “With the possible exception of from four to five weeks during an election on campaign, we have to .ely solely on the loyal and active support of thousands of members whose services are available purely in an honorary capacity. For years the national

executive had considered repeated demands for the appointment of more organisers, the establishment of a public relations section, additional research facilities at head office, and the necessity for an improved information service. ■ “But we have always been faced with the same old problem of finance, and given an assurance that the movement can raise the funds, the necessary improvements can and will become a reality, said Mr McDonald.