WORK OF THE W.C.T.U.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LII, Issue 16024, 16 September 1915, Page 5

WORK OF THE W.C.T.U.

PROVINCIAL CONVENTION.

SOLDIERS AND LIQUOR

The inaugural provincial convention of the Auckland Women's Christian Temperance Union was opened yesterday morning in the Central Mission Hal'. Albert Street.

Mrs. John Cook, president of the Auckland branch, presided, and there were present 60 delegates, representing branches in Auckland, Birkenhead, Hiknrangi, Matakana, Onehnnga, Opotiki, Otahuhu, Ponsonby, Takapuna, Waihi, Warkworth, Hamilton, Morrinsville, Ngaruawahia, Tuakau, Papakura, and Pukekohe. A model constitution, -which had been prepared by the executive, was read, discussed, ' and finally adopted. Reports were then received from the various branches. _ Good progress and increased membership -were recorded.

Temperance "Work in England. In the afternoon an address was delivered, in which the speaker outlined the good work that kindred societies were doing in England towards providing comforts for the soldiers, and in doing their utmost to encourage the men to abstain from alcoholic liquor. The secretary, Miss Evans, made an appeal for " recruits" in the temperance campaign. A vocal it-em, " The Shadows," was given by Mils Scott, of Mount Eden.

Declaration of Loyalty. The following resolution was unanimously passed :— That this meeting of the Pwrinriai CoaTention of the Auckland Women'* Christian Temperance Union realises in the present troubled condition of international affairs a call to declare its unswerving loyalty to the British Throne. It recognises the high" and honourable motives that have influenced the action of tie British Government in the present war, and prays that wisdom may be given to those in authority to continue to take such steps as may be necessary to lead to a peace that will be established on a basis of national and international righteousness." Appeal to Defence Minister. The following resolution, addressed to the Minister for Defence, was passed :-r "That this meeting'of the Auckland Provincial Convention of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, composed chieflv of mothers (many of whom have sons in the New Zealand Expeditionary ; Forces), would earnestly appeal to you to take some steps to prevent the men rearing the King's uniform spending so much of their time in the liquor bars of our towns and cities. We believe that under the guise of friendship the open bar is allowed to wound many soldiers before they reach the firing-line, and so disqualify them for efficient service. We therefore trust that you will give to our men, who are making such sacrifices for our Empire, protection from this enemy." Afternoon tea was dispensed, and the convention adjourned until to-day.