THE DECIMAL SYSTEM

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 562, 15 January 1929, Page 10

THE DECIMAL SYSTEM

A PRESSING NEED NOTED AUSTRALIAN’S VIEWS That the present system of weights and measures is retarding the progress of Australia and New Zealand was contended by Sir Mark Sheldon on his return to Sydney by the Aorangi after five months abroad. He was more convinced than ever, he said, that the sooner the decimal system in weights and money is introduced in Australia and New Zealand, the better. “It is estimated,” continued Sir Mark, “that, in doing business, we are at a disadvantage of at least 15 to 20 per cent., compared with U.S.A. and Canada. “I am convinced that in Australia and other parts of the Empire we will have to recast our ideas in the keeping of accounts and computing generally. “I know that tjie adoption of the decimal system is not a new idea, but, unfortunately for Australia, like the change of gauge in the railways, the matter has been allowed to drift. “At school, at least an exti'a year could be devoted to other subjects if the complicated system of weights and measures had not to be studied. The present system is a mental waste to be avoided at all costs. “The change could not be effected overnight. Two years’ notice should be given, and the £1 denominator retained, as the dollar is too low. “This, after all, is a very simple way of counting costs in business through greater efficiency.”