DRINKING AT DANCES

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23353, 19 November 1937, Page 6

DRINKING AT DANCES

EXTENSION OF POLICE POWERS URGED METHODIST DISTRICT SYNOD (Per United Press Association) MARTON, Nov. 18. In connection with the alleged wide spread practice of drinking in motor cars at dances, often involving young girls, the following resolution was supported by the Wanganui-Taranaki Methodist Synod in conference at Marton: —“That, with a view to safeguard ing the moral well-being of young people attending dances in public halls, and checking the drunken rowdyism so often associated with such dances, Parliament should be urged to extend the powers of the police to enable them to search vehicles in the vicinity of dance halls if suspected of containing intoxicating liquor, whether in pri vate cars, taxis buses or any other vehicles.”

The president, the Rev. F. Copeland (New Plymouth) delivered an informative and inspirational address, making a plea for a consecrated effort and church loyalty. It was decided to recommend that a full-time Maori minister should be employed in the North Taranaki district. The financial returns showed a marked improvement on the previous year in most circuits, and the district was congratulated. In connection with young peoples work, it was recommended to the conference that three directors of youth work should be appointed.