Debate on School Range

Northern Advocate, 5 October 1943, Page 3

Debate on School Range

(Special) CHRISTCHURCH. Monday. “I am not a pacifist, but I believe it is wrong and contrary to the principle af education to have rifle ranges on school grounds," said Mr. R. Jones, in summing-up the opposition of a number of members of the Christchurch Technical College Board of Governors lo a motion that a request for a rifle range for the Papanui Technical College be granted.

1 ; The motion, which was carried by 1 15 to 4, revealed a sharp divergence of 'opinion, and a brisk debate preceded /its passing. Mr. W. T. Langley said that, as lav I; as he knew. Papanui was the only sco- ; ondary school in Christchurch without I a rifle range. :] ‘T.et the Papanui school be the first school in Christchurch or in New Zealand to be without a rifle range, but let us not lose sight of the ideals for ; which we stand." said Mr. Jones. It was important for children to know /how to protect themselves, but it was i not part of technical education to teach . I them the use of firearms.

"I detest war, but I believe that teaching a boy how to use a rifle safeily is not training him to kill his I'olj low-men,” said Mr. J. J. Hurley. "If we can get our boys to take up sports, ’such .as rifle-shooting, we will gradually reduce the Juvenile Court sittings.” Mr. J. E. Jones: It is ridiculous to say that rifle-shotoing is not for killing. It is the first step and should be taken by a man. not a boy. It is nonsense to Isay that rifle-shooting is part of a boy’s I education.

Mr. D. Bowse: The issue has been /sidetracked. The issue was to train ■boys in the use oil rifles with safety. ' It will not be compulsory, and if any jparents object their boys need not take, .it on.