HARBOUR BOARD ACTS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LI, Issue 15685, 12 August 1914, Page 9

HARBOUR BOARD ACTS.

VOTE OF £1000 PASSED.

MORE IF REQUIRED.

LEGISLATION NECESSARY.

The desire of the Auckland Harbour Board to materially assist the Empire during the war was unanimously expressed at yesterday's meeting of the board. The matter was introduced by the chairman, Mr. J. H. Gunson, who moved: — " (a) That, subject to validating legislation, the sum of £1000 be voted to the Auckland Patriotic Fund.

"(b) That the Prime Minister bo requested to forthwith introduce legislation to validate such payment, and any subsequent amounts which it may be considered desirable to similarly vote." '' This is not a panic resolution, but a practical expression of co-operation in and loyalty to our national interests, *whose very life and even existence has been threatened," said Mr. Qunson. " A world crisis has arisen, and at a time of unprecedented turmoil and unrest, it is an occasion for 'deeds not words.' The noble British Empire has been moved from its centre to its circumference in the response to the old-time call of 'duty.' At this hour England will not act in vain, but will worthily uphold and further all that ib most valuable and sacred to civilisation ana progress. The conflict may be brief, but it will be nevere; the enormous financial cost to all nations of the world, and the momentous issues immediately at 6take, promise an early termination, but while circumstances demand it let us heartily respond and stand shoulder to shoulder with our kinsmen and friends across the seas. For our part I think we can do our share." Mr. H. D. Heather seconded the motion.

Mr. E. W. Alison said the issues at stake were so momentous that every individual in the Dominion should realise that theie was a personal responsibility, and a duty resting upon him to help the Dominion and the Empire.

Mr. W. B. Leyland considered thai everyone should act ftfl if the issue of the struggle depended upon himself. "We might not look very much in tho world's affairs," continued Mr. Leyland, " but we are a link in the Empire chain, and 1 think we should ee« that we are not a weak link."

Mr. P. Virtue thought that the boara ought to make the amount £2000, particularly as private firm* were giving sums 01 £1000.

Mr. H. H. Adams considered that the sum ought to be fixed at £5000.

Mr. Gunson pointed out that the resolution provided that further sums could be voted if necessary.

Mr. W. E. Hutchison said that he 6upported the motion which should be carriea because there was no body more intereeteo in maritime affairs than the Auckland Harbour Board. The board had more at stake on the waterfront than any other body in New Zealand.

The resolution was also spoken to by Messrs. A. J. Entrican, H. R. Mackenzie, and G. R. Hutchinson and carried unanimously.