NEW ART UNIONS

Evening Star, Issue 26042, 5 March 1947, Page 8

NEW ART UNIONS

"FUNDS for j-force troops

MR PARRY CRITICISED BY PRESBYTERY

“ The Minister of Internal Affairs, the Hon. W. E. Parry ; has authorised two art unions to provide comforts for servicemen in Japan after the National Patriotic Fund is closed on March 31,” said Dr J. D. Salmond, at a meeting of the Presbytery of Dunedin last night. “I feel strongly on this matter,” continued Dr Salmond, “ for the Minister seems to have no conscience in granting these permits. Instead of using his power to increase gambling he should make every effort to keep it within bounds.”

Dr Salmond explained that the Methodist Conference had protested against the proposal to conduct art unions to provide comforts for servicemen in Japan, and that the Interchurch Council had arranged for a deputation to meet the Prime Minister for a discussion on the subject. “ Gambling has increased in New Zealand;” said Dr Salmond, “ but in Australia it has increased tremendously.” There were not many steps between what-existed in this country and a legalised State lottery. It was encouraging to observe that the recent Hospital Boards’ Conference had rejected art unions as a means of raising funds to support hospitals. “ The exploitation of the people’s desire of excitement that commercialised gambling affords should be resisted,” added. Dr Salmond. It was; a poor business if art unions had to be instituted to provide comforts for .the troops in Japan." It would appear that they were forgotten men. On the motion of Dr Salmond the Presbytery decided to ask the Public Questions Committee of the Assembly to investigate the 1 report of the proposed new art unions, and to take action, if necessary, in accordance with the declared policy of the Assembly.