WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

Evening Star, Issue 14413, 8 July 1910, Page 1

WHAT THE PAPERS SAY

Even if the duty of the State to teach religion were established, the difficulty presented by conflicting beliefs on essential religious questions would make the task one of grave danger, and in attempting its accomplishment the State school system would stand more than a chance of disruption.—Wellington ‘ Times.’

All that can be said for Six Joseph Ward’s scheme is that it is better than the old volunteer system, that it may serve as a makeshift until there are more officers and drill sergeants available, and that it will very soon teach the public that “conscription”—i.e., the compulsory drilling of selected men—is quite impossible, and that true universal service is the only form possible in a modern democracy.—Auckland ‘Herald.’

If those who complain of the weakness of our present system of education on its moral side would be content with ethical instruction and the inculcation of “ reverence for the moral law ” without reference to religious beliefs, the problem would not be a very difficult one. _ But almost insurmountable obstacles arise as soon as the attempt is made to definitely base ethical teaching on a distinctly religious foundation.—The ‘Dominion.’

If tbs workers want the cost of living reducer), they are going the wrong way about it. If commodities are to bo produced more cheaply, instead of -wasteful and costly methods of production under Socialistic management, there must be greater economy in the existing methods, more machinery, more specialisation, and more efficiency on the part of the workers themselves.—Christchurch 1 News.’

The day that the State Fire Office closed its doors 'would witness a very substantial advance in the rates, and the public know this just as well as the companies do. But the State Fire Office has not-closed its doors, nor is it likely to do so as long as the present Administration remains in power.—Mailboiough ‘ Express.’

Wo do not hesitate to predict that the humane and enlightened people of this country, when once they realise the position, will demand that commodious sanitary and well-ventilated school buildings shall be the rule, and not the exception.— Southland ‘News.’

The Gaming Act has received a fair test, and public opinion is clamoring for its repeal. Against that demand there can be no successful resistance. No doubts therefore need be entertained as to the future of the bookmaker. It is quite certain that his business as a legalised calling will cease to exist.;—Manawatu 1 Standard.’