JUNIOR REFORM

Dominion, Volume 25, Issue 259, 28 July 1932, Page 11

JUNIOR REFORM

Alteration in Name OBJECTIVES IN POLICY A change in the name of the Junior Reform League to the Reform Union, Wellington branch, was approved by resolution at a committee meeting of the league. It was also decided that the Reform Union should ratify and adopt the aims and objects, and constitute a branch of the New Zealand Reform League, and that its'immediate object should be to give effect to the following points:— (a) The principle of non-Governmental interference in private enterprise be persistently and energetically applied. (b) A survey of the cost of the State and public administration to the taxpayer, with a view to securing a reduction in taxation.

. (c) No further extension of the Public Service, and a reduction where possible. (d) Increased and closer control by Parliament over expenditure. It was decided that the union should use its best endeavours toward the fulfilment of these objects.

Speakers considered that open discussion in the development and investigation of these points would be invaluable, and that young candidates or members holding these views should be brought forward or supported. It was agreed that the above and other points should be fully discussed by means of debate and model parliament, and arrangements are being made accordingly. Various speakers emphasised the urgent need for a relinquishment of State holdings and competition In various fields of private enterprise. Further, it was held that the interfering and harassing legislation now on the Statute Books should be amended or repealed in order that private enterprise might be given an opportunity for rehabilitation, recovery,, and progress. It was generally agreed that a closer co-operation between members of Parliament and electors was desirable, and it was felt that those supported by the Reform Union should meet it to discuss current legislation, election platforms, and any deviations from them. It was felt that there was a mutual responsibility, and for this reason that there must be a mutual understanding. ’

It was stated the Reform Union believed that Socialistic legislation not only contravened the constitutional rights and freedom of the people, but that it also had a tendency to break down progressively their initiative and self-reliance, and that unless active steps were taken to check it, it must ultimately end in national disaster.