GOOD INTENTIONS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 80, 28 June 1945, Page 2

GOOD INTENTIONS

MISLEADING GUIDE IN POLITICS Some of the people who advocate a new era of “planning,” and “social control” of banking industry and transport. are often animated by good intentions. They really believe that their favourite theories will bring about the results they desire. But good intentions often go astray, and they are certainly not a sound guide in politics. Most political theories have been tested in practice, and none has bee n tested more thoroughly than large-scale State planning and State control of the work and life of a people. Before, during, and after the First World War, Germany accepted the theory that the “German secret” was national organisation. Its leaders boasted of a “higher and more advanced economic system.” One of them stated: “While the other nations still live under the regime of individualism, we have already achieved that of organisation.” This “organisation” was large-scale State control of the nation’s economy and State regimentation of the population. Thus the good intentions of the “planners” provided the perfect foundations for Hitler’s new order of “National Socialism.” New Zealanders should beware of the insidious encroachments of State control. State planning, and State monopolies. The proposed acquisition by the Government of the Bank of New Zealand is a bold step in that direction. Those who advocate that purchase declare bluntly that their ultimate aim is a State banking monopoly. Their challenge is audaciously thrown at the feet of the people. Take up the challenge! Write or wire your Member: Leave the Bank alone.*