AUTOMOBILE UNION

New Zealand Times, Volume XL, Issue 9092, 10 July 1915, Page 5

AUTOMOBILE UNION

ANNUAL MEETING YESTERDAY. The annual meeting of the New Zealand Automobile Union, held in tho Accountants’ Chambers yesterday, was attended by tho following delegates: ■ —Hawke’s Bay, Messrs P. S. McLean (president) and Russell Duncan; Wellington, Mr C. M. Banks and Dr 0P. Knight; Manawatu, Mr R. S Abraham ; Wairarr.pa, Mr C. Elgar ; Marlborough, Messrs Fraser-Tylter, Gane, and Thomas; Canterbury, Mr Johnston; Otago, Mr G. B. Bullock. The report, which was presented bj the secretary (Mr W. Beauchamp Platts), and adopted, stated that little progress had been made in auto mobile legislation owing to the war. The formation of one or' more main trunk roads through both islands was advocated. Tho various associations throughout tho country were urged to consolidate their interests by affiliating with tho union and supporting it in its efforts to obtain suitable legislation and in its action in questions of national importance. The chairman emphasised the usefulness of the’ union in regard to legislation on such topics as the' licensing of drivers (which should be universal), motor traction and speed limits. The union advocated a “reasonable” speed limit. He stated that the union would probably be consulted in matters concerning motorists by the Government, and would be able to assist in the carrying of the wounded from the ships to their homes or hospitals. Several speakers regretted that the union was receiving so little support from other associations, and the hope was generally expressed that motorists would in future realise the great value of a central body.