RIGHTS OF CONSCIENCE

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 722, 23 July 1929, Page 1

RIGHTS OF CONSCIENCE

PRESBYTERY DISCUSSES 3 OBJECTORS % - l DISCRIMINATION CRITICISED l —— 1 More was heard of the attitude of 1 the Presbyterian Church regarding the treatment of conscientious ob- ‘ jectors when the Auckland Presbytery held a special meeting this i afternoon. Mr. D. D. Scott, clerk of the Presbytery, opened the question, saying that the Presbyterian General Assembly’s Public Questions Committee was seeking the views of Presbyteries throughout New Zealund. Mr. Scott said that the members were familiar with the representations made, especially in connection with the divinity students, Blessrs. A. IVI. Richards and A. IMiller, to the Lliniste-r of Justice, the Hon. 'l‘. M. VVilford. Mr. Scott read the report from the Assembly. The Presbyterian Church was asking for equality of treatment. and an objector had the right to have his claim thoroughly examined. Mr. Scott moved, in view of the de—cision by the Assembly‘s Public Ques—tions Committee, that the Presbytery of Auckland should support the Assembly in seeking the assurance of the Prime Minister concerning the state'ments by the Minister of Justice on July 10 with reference to the absence of discrimination in applications ‘for exemption. Also, concerning the early gazetting of alternative non—military service. Mr. Scott also moved that the Prime Minister’s proposal to exempt divinity students should be extended to include all legitimate conscientious objections The Rev. D. C. Herron seconded, and the subject was opened for discussion. (Proceeding) _