IN LIEU OF FINES.

Waikato Times, Volume 121, Issue 20126, 23 February 1937, Page 9

IN LIEU OF FINES.

(To the Editor.)

Sir, —The writer had occasion lo approach Hie Hon. li. G‘. R. Mason, Minister of Justice, in reference to imprisonment In lieu of fines. Consequently the following two questions were submitted to the Minister: (1) The number of persons Imprisoned in lieu of fines for the year 1930; and

(2) dobs the Government intend to introduce legislation to do away with imprisonment in such cases when traceable to poverty of pocket?

The following is a reply from the Minister of Justice relative to the questions thus submitted:—

“Replying to your letter of the 13th instant: (1) I’he figures for the number of persons imprisoned in default of payment of fines has not yet been extracted for the year 1936; (2) the Government proposes to pass legislation at an early date to do away with imprisonment in such cases.”

As one’s economic environment determines one’s line of action, and, again, as our actions are relative to factors which we have very little control over, the Minister of Justicedeserves thanks and appreciation in anticipation of legislation which will end for all time the practice of imprisonment for poverty of pocket.— I am, etc.,

HARRY WOODRUFFE, Auckland, February 20.