CIVIC RECEPTIONS.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20232, 16 February 1934, Page 5

CIVIC RECEPTIONS.

Mayor of Auckland Refuses to Explain Policy. “NOT GUIDED BY OTHERS.” Per Press Association. AUCKLAND, February 16. The Mayor, Mr G. W. Hutchison, declined to tell the City Council last night whether he would give a civic reception to Mr George Bernard Shaw, nor would he say why he had not given one to Major C. H. Douglas. Councillor Yarnall asked why Major Douglas was not given a civic welcome, whereas that honour had been accorded to him in Wellington and Dunedin. Was it the Mayor’s intention to give Mr Shaw a civic reception? “I am putting this question because I am alarmed lest your Worship will be overwhelmed with deputations. It is possible that Mr. Shaw, in a moment of aberration, might make an attack upon our noble city and our City Fathers. Therefore, I should like to j know whether you intend to give a j reception to this illustrious gentle- i man ? ” The Mayor smilingly replied: I do! not know' whether the question is facetious or not. I should like to state that the Mayor of Auckland is not guided in his action by the Mayors of Wellington or Dunedin. In regard to Mr Shaw, I will answer the request when it is made to me by those who want me to give him a civic reception.