EXHIBITION ACCOUNTS AND SURPLUS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXVI, Issue 11229, 25 November 1899, Page 6 (Supplement)

EXHIBITION ACCOUNTS AND SURPLUS.

TO THE ED1TOI). Sir-As one of the guarantors in connection with the recent Auckland Industrial and Mining Exhibition, I quite endorse the views of your correspondent, " A Guarantor," in to-day's issue, regarding tho balance-sheet presented by the president on behalf of the executive. There is clearly more to be learnt, and further explanation is required for the unusual course of setting aside the treasurer's statement of the accounts and substituting therefor one that lias not received his endorsement. With regard to the surplus funds of £2000 or more, that lias accrued from the undertaking. tho time has now come for a decision upon the question of its disposal, a, question that has not as yet been discussed at any meeting representative of those entitled to decide upon it. I believe it is claimed—T fear somewhat arrogantly—that all further discussion upon this important issue is barred by the terms of an informal circular issued by some irresponsible individuals, and not by any constituted authority, prior to the first regular meeting, which resulted in the establishment of the soheme of an exhibition, and the consequent formation of a general committee fur carrying it into effect. At this meeting the question in point was never brought forward, nor has it since at any time been formally discussed. I observed that at a recent meeting of a certain select, section of the community, cvidence was given of some avidity upon their part to seize upon the spoil. But a proposal that has been put forward, and with a stronger claim upon public approval, is that this money be applied to the erection of a suitable building for a technical school. Such a scheme would confer permanent advantage upon our industries and widespread benefit upon the community. As in other centres similarly endowed, the Government would no doubt provide pound for pound towards the cost of tho undertaking. This proposal I would strenuously support. As to the requirements of the Chamber of Commerce, there should bo 110 difficulty, one would think, in meeting them by finding the necessary accommodation under the capacious roof of the Harbour Board building. At any rate,.whatever may bo the decision, the disposal of tho Exhibition surplus is a matter for consideration by the whole, and not by a limited section of the general committee, in conjunction with the guarantors, whose wishes and views should bo ot paramount consideration.—! am, etc., Another Guarantor. November 21, 1899. ,