CHURCH AND STATE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 20115, 28 November 1928, Page 13

CHURCH AND STATE.

THE ASSEMBLY LUNCHEON.

IN PRAISE OF POLITICIANS. "JUST AS GOOD AS YOU ARE." "There is a lot of mischievous nonsenso talked about politicians," said the llev. Professor Ilewilson, presiding at the assembly luncheon yesterday. "Politicians arc just as good as you are," ho declared amid laughter. They represent us. Seven of the local members of Parliament, Messrs. M. J. Savage, J. S. Fletcher, A. J. Stallwortby, A. Harris, J. 15. Donald, W. Parry and G. Mutins, accepted the invitation to bo present at tlio luncheon, and an apology and message of goodwill was received from Mr. 11. R. Jenkins, M.P.

Professor Ilewilson urged that if tho men who administer laws had to undergo special training so assuredly should those who made them. In a witty speech that was much enjoyed lie spoko of tlioso whoso vision was so limited that they did not know there was any other land south of Cook Strait. (Laughter.) "Compromise," he declared, "you have to have it. If you aro a married man —" but tho rest of tho sentence was drowned in a shout of laughter. "Very well. I see you understand," he said, as ho passed on the next point. On behalf of tho guests Mr. M. J. Savage returned thanks for the invitation extended them. lie agreed with tho moderator that members of Parliament were not treated with tho seriousness they deserved, bocauso they could do a very great amount of harm. Ho complimented the Presbyterian Church on the forward strides it had mado and tho success with which it was meeting. It would bo all to the good if they had greater opportunity of meeting and exchanging views, Mr. A. Harris, speaking as an old parliamentary man, claimed that most members had a wide knowledge of the problems with which they had to deal and were actuated with a sincero desire to do their best for their country. Members of Parliament and ministers had much in common, and both were shockingly underpaid. (Laughter.)

Mr. J. S. Fletcher congratulated the moderator on the wonderfully healthy reports that had been given of the organisations of the Church. Members of Parliament were going down to Wellington with tho vision splendid before them, believing that this could be made "God's own country." With regard to the Soutli Island being overlooked he believed he could say with every confidence that they were going to give them the next Prime Minister from the South Island. (Laughter. )

The Hon. J. B. Gow responded on behalf of the assembly, and expressed pleasure at this "rapprochement" between Church and State. He agreed that all the parties wero seeking the betscrment of New Zealand rather than party advantage. The singing of the National Anthem brought the gathering to a close.