SOCIAL PROGRESS

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 252, 21 July 1938, Page 4

SOCIAL PROGRESS

Kelburn Branch Meeting In tlie charming home of Mrs. B. L. Dallard, Upland Road, Wellington, the annual general meeting of the Kelburn branch of the Women’s Social Progress Movement seemed less of a formal meeting than a friendly gathering. A period of devotion opened the meeting, and afterward two duets were charmingly sung by Mrs. Russell Laurenson and Mrs. Ironside, who were accompanied by Mrs. Dallard. The secretary, Mrs. A. G. Radford, read the annual report, which indicated a successful year with increased membership, and a satisfactory financial position. She also read an extract from the central committee’s annual report, dealing with its work to combat the liquor problem, to help the native people, to encourage the use of the Bible in schools, and to further social progress in other ways. Mrs. Dallard said that the Kelburn branch had been less active during the past year than former years, but that she believed what they had done to be of value, and was sure that they would push forward in the future. Tea was served by the committee, and Miss-E. H. Compton sang two songs which were very much appreciated. An informal discussion took place about the increased consumption of alcohol, Mrs. Dallard quoting statistics. Mrs. R. Pearson suggested that the 40-hour week was in some measure responsible, and that some big place where men could gather and spend their leisure profitably might help to overcome the evil. Mrs. M. H. Chatfield referred to the evil of cocktail parties and drinking at dances, suggesting the abolition of passes at dances, and parking areas at a distance from the halls. She said also that it was up to women to ask those standing for Parliament to express their views on these matters at public meetings. Mrs. Stewart stresesd the value of a large no-license vote, even when prohibition was not gained. Mrs. ’Dallard said that teaching the evils of alcoholism in the schools was another effective step. The following officers were elected for be coining year: President, Mrs. B. L. Dallard; vice-presidents, Mesdames Inglis. W. Shirer, R. Pearson, Kirk, Miss Crump; honorary secretary, Mrs. A. G. Radford; committee, Mesdames Purdie, H. Hannah, McPhee, Robertson, J. H. Freeman. Ironside, Redgrave, Arnold, Martin, R. Tait, Barrow, Mark.

. Tribute was paid to Mrs. Dallard for her work in the past, and her kindness in continuing as president. Both she and Mrs. Radford were presented with flowers.

Mrs. Dallard was warmly thanked for offering her home for the meeting.