N.Z. LEGION

Greymouth Evening Star, 13 March 1933, Page 6

N.Z. LEGION

DR. C. BEGG INTERVIEWED. WELLINGTON, March 10. Dr. Campbell Begg in an interview I gave some details of the organisation known as Hie New Zealand Legion. “Many meetings have been held throughout the Dominion,” Dr. Begg said, “and in view of the enthusiastic ■ manner in which the proposal has been i received it has been decided to call together a national council representa-, live of the main districts and definite-; ly to put into being the New Zealand Legion. The main aim of the league is to teach people their responsibility as units in a democratic government. Hitherto, they have been content to: exercise the governmental function which is their right merely by giving I a vote on certain occasions. The legion deprecates hysterical criticism of those doing their best to exercise the functions of government within the .imperfect machinery oi Parliament, Hie imperfectness of which is entirely due to the people themselves. The legion says in effect: ‘Hitherto you have been content to reap the benefits of democracy ami failed to take

the responsibilities. Unless now you are prepared to realise these responsibilities, democracy itself and the stability and the Government resting upon it is in danger.’ The leagues attitude is non-party and its purpose is to assist and encourage and stimulate what is best in our public life.” Dr. Begg said the league would not be definitely formed with a full constitution and rules until the national council had been decided. Whether there should be a woman’s section of the league was carefully considered, and the advice of public-spirited women was being enlisted as to the most effective organisation. Dr. Begg added: “As the first suggestion of the movement was . made only a month ago, the elaboration of its aims and organisation is yet in the rough. It can be said, however, that any statement that any sectional interest is behind it is a deliberate falsehood.’ ’ * 1