Mayor v. Council

Hutt News, Volume 18, Issue 43, 16 May 1945, Page 5

Mayor v. Council

A MOTION DEFEATED

When a letter from the Hutt Valley; Milk Consumers' Society asking the City Council to receive a deputation to explain the aims and objects of the Society was before the Council on Monday evening last a motion by the Mayor that such deputation be not received, was opposed by a number of councillors and eventually an amendment by Cr. E. F. Rothwell that, the deputation be received subject to certain conditions, was carried without dissent. In moving that the deputation be not received the Mayor stated that he did not regard the City; Council as the proper body to be approached in this matter and suggested that the proposed deputation be referred to the Milk Council. Cr. E. P. Hay doubted the wisdom of this course. He felt that the attitude of the Council on the milk question was being misrepresented and that such misrepresentation would more or less be confirmed in the minds of a section of the citizens if the deputation was refused. Cr. H. V. Horlor considered it would be "bad tactics" to refuse. Mr. H. G. Lewis said he would be very sorry to see the deputation turn ed down and thought such action would be dangerous. Mr. H. F. Muir thought that the public did not know the real mind of the Council on the milk question and that the reception of the deputation would be a good opportunity to let the public know the council's real views. Cr. E. F. Rothwell favoured receiving the deputation provided they came prepared to disclose the number they represent and the objects of the Society. He moved an amend ment accordingly. Cr. F. Lonsdale seconded the amendment as he thought the air would be cleared by receipt of the deputation. After further discussion the amend ment was carried without dissent.