INDIGNANT M.P.

Star (Christchurch), Volume XLIV, Issue 601, 3 November 1932, Page 10

INDIGNANT M.P.

Attack on Progress League. BOOKLET RETURNED. The member for Mataura, Mr D. M’Dougall, does not hold a high opinion of the Canterbury Progress League. He addressed a few forceful words to the league in a letter read at the meeting last night. This is what he said:— “ I hereby return your booklet as I have no desire to peruse anything sent to me from a self-appointed body composed of a lot of d cads and whom I have no desire to meet either in this world or the next.” The booklet was one entitled “ Motor Taxation and Highways ” issued by the

league in connection with the National Expenditure Commision’s recommendation that the Highways Fund be abolished. When the organiser (Mr P. R. Climie) mentioned the name of Mr M’Dougall there was a round of laughter, renewed when the letter had been read.

“ I think it is beneath our dignity to take any notice of it,” said the chairman, Mr C. Flavell.

“We are not a self-appointed body, as everybody knows. I think the best way is to receive it.”

“ I think we ought to set an example of courtesy and dignity and receive all the letters with the exception of Mr M’Dougall’s and that it lie on the table,” said Mr F. W. Johnston. “ I wouldn’t even receive it. One would have thought that a man of his ability, and one who poses as a wit, would take any remarks made in a better spirit.” Mr Johnston’s suggestion was adopted. A number of letters in praise of the publication were received.