Meeting Allowed, But No Demonstration

Manawatu Times, Volume 60, Issue 195, 20 August 1935, Page 5

Meeting Allowed, But No Demonstration

UNEMPLOYED WORKERS APPROACH COUNCIL.

Recently tho Palmerston North branch of tho National Unemployed Workers' Movement asked tho City Council's permission to hold a demonstration in Palmerston North, but the council declined. Last evening, however, a deputation from tho N.U.W.M. waited on the council asking that the request be granted. They had as their speaker Mr. F. Lee, who said all that was asked for was tho right to assemble in Rangitikci street, march to tho Labour Office and from there to tho Square for a protest meeting. Past demonstrations had been orderly. To the N.U.W.M. the matter was a vital one because it was Iheir desire to bring to tho notice of the people of Palmerston North such matters as the unemployed receiving standard rates of pay and a decent standard of living. The demonstration was a very great weapon in the gaining of an object and a protest meeting at the band rotunda would give a lot of publicity to the aims of the movement.. The Mayor asked Mr. Lee what tho membership of tho N.U.W.M. was in Palmerston North and Mr. Lee refused to answer. Instead he thought it not tho matter at issue.

The Mayor asked for further information as to what effect was expected from tho demonstration, Mr. Lee stating that it had a good effect upon tho Government.

Cr. Hodgens asked if the movement would accept simply the right to speak from tho rotunda with no marching? Mr. Lee said they would have to accept that if the council only went thnt far, but would like the full request-., Cr. Hodgeus moved that the N.U.W.M. bo granted permission to hold a meeting at the band rotunda and Cr. Tenncnt seconded.

Cr. Tremaine pointed out that under a previous resolution of the council, the names of speakers would have to be submitted. Tlic motion was carried.