TOPICS OF THE DAY.

Waikato Times, Volume 118, Issue 19639, 27 July 1935, Page 6

TOPICS OF THE DAY.

Bryant Settlement Scheme The report of the address givenby Mr.D. Y. Bryant on the working of his closer settlement scheme before members of the Hamilton Rotary Club on Monday last was pleasant reading, being a record of achievement. The promoter has essayed great things, and he is confident of success for his undertaking, there, being no cause for apprehension ns to the future, the financial position being assured. Mr Bryant and those associated with him have reason to bo proud* The further proposal that the society be recognised and used as a trying-out institution for unemployed men lias much to recommend it, and should’ be welcomed by the Government and men alike. The aim of the proposal is to provide a channel by which the idle can be absorbed in productive labour. The men would have the benefit of experience in farm work, and q farmer obtaining labour through the society would have the assurance that be was getting the class' of labour he needed, for the society would not recommend a dud. As the society purpose to keep in contuct with those who pass through their hands undqr the scheme, the psychological aspect, would, as Mr Bryant pointed out, be an important factor in the scheme, for the knowledge that somebody is taking a personal interest in their present and future welfaro is a great desideratum to all, and especially t 6 younger men. Departure of the All Blacks On Wednesday morning next there will depart from these shores a band of 29 young men who are commissioned to uphold the honour of their native land on the football grounds of Britain. That they will Worthily do so none has doubt. All will unite in wishing them bon voyage, a successful tour and a safe return. Becoming an All Black has its advantages, but it must not be thought that the honour is without responsibilities. Truth 'and triteness are combined when it is said that the All Blacks in Great Britain will bo looked upon as moro than representatives of New Zealand football. Their actions will reflect upon flieir country, and it is essential that they shall leave pleasing memories in the minds of all whom they meet ort and off the playing fields. The average Englishman, in a few years’ time, will forget what the scores were in the matches played, but what will be remembered is the sporting qualities and the manners of the team. The hope will bo general throughout the Dominion that the team will return with an unbeaten record, but that is all important. What does matter is that, win or lose, they worthily uphold the honour of New Zealanders, not primarily as footballers, but as gentlemen. The Speaker’s Retirement. The announcement that Sir Charles Statham, the Speaker, of the House of Representatives, will not seek re-election will be received with widespread regret, for under the presidency of Sir Charles our popular chamber has worthily upheld the high traditions of the British parliamentary system, which are the envy of other countries. He held the scale with absolute impartiality, and Avon the respect of all parties. The reasons given by Sir Charles for his decision are weighty. He holds that the Speaker, by virtue of his office, should be returned unopposed, as to express his opinions on the hustings may prejudice him and lead to charges of partiality when in the Speaker’s chair. , - The. Speaker has no pre-emptive right to a seat in Parliament, aud any elector has a right to oppose him. It should be possible, however, for the leaders of the respective parties to tacitly agree to liis unopposed return. The Speaker is an essential officer and must possess exceptional gifts. Sir Charles has shown that he possesses these in a marked degree, and his continuance in his high office would be welcomed throughout the Dominion.