Southern Synod Voices Fears For Democratic Ideals

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23041, 3 September 1949, Page 6

Southern Synod Voices Fears For Democratic Ideals

(P.A.) INVERCARGILL. Sept. 2. The inaction of Parliament in not debating the recommendations of the Royal Commission on Licensing drew adverse comment ana a strongly-word-ed motion from the Otago-So'uthland Synod of the Methodist Church yesterday.

The Rev. A. H. Ivory (Caversham) drew attention to what he described as a serious aspect of affairs in the House of Representatives where members debated in committee matters concerning the moral welfare of the people. The leaders appeared to be unable to meet criticism, he said. “It was obvious from the Licensing Act debate that the matter had previously been discussed behind dosed doors," Mr. Ivory continued. “This is in direct contravention of the ideals of democracy.

“It has been described as political chicanery bv people better qualified than I am to speak on Parliamentary affairs.

“The Licensing Bill was rushed through. This has happened again and again on licensing matters. I think it is time to convey to both parties the church’s attitude to such proceedings.” The rnenimc.usly passed the following motion:

“The synod notes with concern the present tendency of Parliament to make questions of moral welfare partv matters, so that discussion in the House is stifled and important dcc'sions are taken in caucus, rather than on the floor of the House. As evidence of this practice the synod instances the manner in which the Licensing Amendment Act, 1948, was passed.

“Important recommendations of the Royal Commission on Licensing, which would enable stricter control

of the liquor traffic, and which were also supported by churches and temperance groups, could not be introduced into the House because no member was able to bring forward amendments as the bill had been declared a party measure.”