PROTEST TO MR. HOLLAND THAT WAIMARINO CLUBS ARE UNFAIRLY TREATED

Wanganui Chronicle, 10 December 1949, Page 4

PROTEST TO MR. HOLLAND THAT WAIMARINO CLUBS ARE UNFAIRLY TREATED

N. PLYMOUTH, Last Night (P.A.) —An insistence that action be taken by the Prime Minister in ameliorating the position with regard to clubs in the Waimarino electorate, was expressed in a telegram sent by Mr. P. Kearins, M.P. for Waimarino, today.

The telegram requested an urgent reply and was addressed to the Prime Minister-elect, Mr. Holland, who is also Minister in Charge of Police. It read: “I protest most strongly against all clubs in the Waimarino electorate being closed with the exception of a small number under the control of the Hamilton district. I am given to understand the order came from Wellington. This is the third time clifbs have been interfered with. My interpretation of the Licensing Act and Amendments places Waimarino clubs on the same basis as clubs in the Waitomo electorate and the rest of the Dominion. If it is right for all clubs in Mr. Broadfoot’s electorate and the rest of the Dominion to be open, surely you will agree it is also right for Waimarino clubs to operate. I urgently request you, as Minister in Charge of Police, to issue the necessary instructions ordering an immediate reopening of the clubs. I further request they be allowed to carry on in line with other unchartered clubs in the Dominion till the Licensing Commission deals with all applications for charters. An early reply will be appreciated as I intend to release this telegram to the press.” A further telegram was sent to Mr. Broadfoot soliciting his support in the request. A prompt reply was received from Mr. Broadfoot, who offered his support. Lt. said: “Have made the necessary representations and have asked for prompt action. Will press the matter on Tuesday as soon as we take over.”