SCHOOL RIFLE RANGE

Evening Post, Volume CXXXVI, Issue 84, 6 October 1943, Page 3

SCHOOL RIFLE RANGE

BOARD MEMBERS DIFFER

CHRISTCHURCH, October 5. "I am not a pacifist, but I believe it is wrong and contrary to the principles of education to haye rifle ranges on school grounds," said Mr. R. Jones, in summing up the opposition of a number of members of the Christchurch Technical College Board of Governors to a motion that a request for a rifle range for the Papanui Technical College be granted. The motion, which was carried by 5 to 4, revealed a sharp divergence of opinion, and a brisk debate preceded its passing. Mr. W. T. Langley said that, as far as he knew, Papanui was the only secondary school in Christchurch without a -rifle range. "Let the Papanui School be the first school in Christchurch or in New Zealand to be without a rifle range, but let us not lose sight of the ideals for which we stand," said. Mr. Jones. It was important for children to know how to protect themselves, but it was not part,-of technical education to teach them the use of firearms.

"I detest war, but I believe that teaching a boy how to use a rifle safely is not training him to kill his fellowmen," said Mr.. J. J. Hurley. "If we can get our boys to take up sports, such as rifle-shooting, we will gradually reduce the Juvenile Court sittings." Mr. J. E. Jones: It is ridiculous to say that rifle-shooting is not for killing. It is the first step and should be taken by a man, not a boy. It is nonsense to say that rifle-shooting is part of a boy's education. Mr. D. Rowse: The issue l}as been sidetracked. The issue was to train boys in the use of rifles with safety. It will not be compulsory, and if any parents object their boys need not take it on.