AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Evening Post, Volume LCCVI, Issue 126, 26 November 1908, Page 4

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

NOTES AND COMMENTS. MUSIC ON SUNDAY. A discussion took place at tho Prahrnn (Victoria) Council last week, in regard to correspondence that had appeared in the Argus from representatives of the Prahran Minislerb' Association, in opposition to a recent action of the council in formally opening two new reserves on a Sunday, and also in regard to comments made by Councillor Densham on the association. Councillor Densham : We are not antagonistic to the Rev. Mr. " Rolland or the Prahran Ministers' Association, but we are quite prepared to carry on our own business. The council represents every class and sect in the community. We are not concerned in tho morals of the community or its spiritual welfare. ("Oh!") The clergy are always particularly unfortunate whenever they intrude in public affairs. They cried out against Sunday trains, and when Sir Thomas Bent threatened to stop all trains on Sundays, there was a great scuttle. Under the new licensing law there- is not one drachm of whisky less drunk than previously, and through the publication of the odds on sporting events being prohibited the public had been delivered into the hands of the "books." (Laughter.) Councillor Luxton : It would be a serious reflection on the council if it went forth to the public that we agreed with the comments made by Councillor Densham. (Hear, hear.) I maintain that tFie new liquor and anti-gambling laws are two of the best things ever introduced, especially for the working classes. The Mayor (Councillor Dobson) : The reverend gentlemen revolve in their own sphere, and they should allow us to revolve iv our own sphere. I do not think any mistake was made in opening the new reserves on a Sunday. Councillor Nicholson : I am in favour of providing good music for the people on Sundays. I believe in making the people happyOther councillors also spoke against Councillor Densham's \de\vs being taken as those of the whole counci'.