MILITARY SERVICE BILL.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 11756, 21 July 1916, Page 5

MILITARY SERVICE BILL.

PROTEST OFMTAPURESIDENTS CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS' CLAUSE. A representative meeting of residents was held at Tai Tapu on Wednesday night, for the purpose of discussing the Military Service Bill, and tho clause providing for tho conscientious objector. Captain Macartney, chairman of the local Patriotic Society, who. presided, said that while a small minority ot pooplo were making a considerable noise in favour of tho addition of the clause, the great majority, who were in favour of every person doing his share of the defonco of tho Empire, were remaining quiet and saying nothing to strengthen the hands of tho Government in refusing to provide tor tho conscientious objector, and thereby opening the door to the shirker as well. Several speakers admitted every respect for the opinions of the Quaker, but considered that to provide for him would tempt tho shirker to shelter under tho same plea. Tho following resolution, moved by the chairman, and seconded by Mr G. Whitelaw, was carried unanimously: " That this meeting emphatically protests against the clause inserted In the Military Servico Bill by the Legislative Council regarding" conscieitious objectors, and urges that the Bill as passed by tho Lower House bo strictly adhered to." It was agreed to forward a copy of the resolution to tho Hon Minister of Defence. [Per Press Association - .] WELLINGTON, July 20. The Prime Minister has received tie following telegram from the president of the , Greymouth Port Waterside Workers' Union:—"We, the members of the Greymouth Port Waterside Workers' Union, endorso the action of the Government in passing the National Service Bill. Wo consider it the best and fairest method of reaching eligible persons who should serve their King and Empire.—James M'Kinley, president." •