Temperance Rally

Manawatu Times, Volume 69, Issue 208, 2 September 1944, Page 3

Temperance Rally

There was a good attendance in St. Andrew's Hall on Wednesday night, the programme being in the hands of the Salvation Army, Major Neeve presiding. 'Pastimes in the United States and scenes from Australia were shown. The band played "Dovecourt Citadel” and Major Neeve led the gathering in prayer. A recitation was given by Miss M. Clegg, an anthem by the choir, and euphonium solo by Deputy-Bandmaster Hoare. Mr. H. Grinstead reported on the recent annual meeting of the New Zealand Alliance. He regretted to say that Rev. J. Hubbard could not be present. There had not been for many years so good an annual meeting from the standpoint of representation. Many of the older members were present, and there was a sprinkling of the younger men. There could not be the slightest doubt as to where the Alliance stood on the question of the final outcome. It stood definitely for the abolition of liquor. Its manufacture and sale. It stood definitely for the insertion in the ballot paper of the right of rtie people to say they would not have liquor shops in their districts or round their own doors. This law was especially needed in the working-class districts in J.’almerston North as well as in all industrial centres. A Dominion organiser would be appointed who, with Mr. H. W. Milner, of Wellington, would organise the temperance forces of the Dominion. A case for the Royal Commission would be prepared. The Government would be asked also to subsidise or build well-ap-pointed hotels without liquor licenses in the cities and large towns where they were needed. Following the address, the band played several selections and a cornet solo with pianoforte accompaniment and a cornet duet by Messrs Leighton and Hoare were enjoyed. Bandmaster J. Clegg was conducter and the band was highly commended on its programme. Miss Tong was a most efficient accompaniste. Rev. G. W. Hercus moved a vote of thanks to all those who had taken part. .