FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIV, Issue 306, 23 November 1934, Page 12

FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

METHODIST RESOLUTION. Per Press Association. CHRISTCHURCH, Nov. 22. A recommendation defining the attitude of the North Canterbury Methodist District Synod on the question of freedom of speech was approved at a cession of the synod this evening. Rev. A. H. Fowles moved, that “this synod affirms the principle of free speech upon all subjects and problems that confront our national, industrial, and moral life. We believe it to be a fundamental principle of democracy that men should be permitted to express their thoughts and ideas on matters of public welfare without undue interference from the State, subject to the reasonable provision that such expression of opinion in public places should not disorganise traffic nor incite to violence or destruction of property. As there are indications that this right to free speech is at present in danger of being unduly curtailed we urge that such curtailment be resisted.” ‘‘Some of us believe that the right of free speech can be overdone,” said Rev C. B. Jordan, in seconding the motion, “and so it can be if people are allowed to advocate crime and violence. But the fact remains that we cannot get nearer to truth unless we allow absolutely free discussion. There is certainly a danger in this country of the curtailment of the rights of free speech. I know wrong opinions are put forward, but if people are given freedom of utterance errors will be corrected.” The recommendation was adopted.