EXCHANGE OF VIEWS

Waikato Times, Volume 120, Issue 19946, 24 July 1936, Page 6

EXCHANGE OF VIEWS

Prior to the resumption of the session representatives of local bodies in Southland met the members of both Houses of Parliament and discussed many matters of local importance. Remits came from some local authorities dealing with various problems and the need for certain public works was stressed. The meeting must have been of distinct value to the local bodies and also to the members of Parliament, as it enabled both parties to exchange views and tended to create a community of interest. This course has been followed in Canterbury for some years and it would he a good thing if a similar conference were held in the South Auckland district. If a central local authority would take the initiative the co-operation of other bodies could be counted upon with confidence and the members of Parliament would probably welcome the opportunity to talk over local matters, for many of the problems are phases of national issues. The custom, observed in earlier days, of members addressing the electors during the recess has fallen into disuse, although there have been several political meetings in various parts of the Dominion during the past few weeks, so that a conference along the lines of that held in the South would serve a valuable purpose. Recent legislation has directly affected the financial position of the local authorities, and added to their difficulties to some extent. And there are the wider district interests that such a meeting might well consider. The legislation passed affects the electorates generally and a frank discussion with members of local bodies would enable the members to obtain the views of a body of representative men. At the same time the local delegates would be able to gain first-hand knowledge of the intentions of the Government, especi—ally as they concern local governance. The Southland meeting was open to the Press and the electors were thus able to follow the dis—cussion. It was a step in the right. direction and the South Auckland district would probably gein if co—operation of a. similar kind were established between members of Parliament and local bodies here.