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SMAD. An Organ of Student Opinion. 1935. Volume 6. Number 13.

Fascism for New Zealand

Fascism for New Zealand.

The debate, that New Zealand should become Fascist, on Saturday, June 29, was very poorly attended and again indicated the slackening of interest in the society's debates.

Opening the debate, McElwain presented us with a theoretical Fascism transcending the brands at present in operation. It was based on two principle—the hierarchy of ability and the principle of abstinence—the latter meaning that satisfactory institutions were left alone. New Zealand is moving with the other countries towards economic nationalism which, added to the increasing organisation of individuals into groups, must result in Fascism.

"Nonsense By Violence."

An apologetic Katz did not want to destroy McElwain's ideals, but felt he must do so pro bono publico. He contended that the hierarchy of ability had more chance in the present system and that the principle of abstinence was merely the will of the dictator. Fascism is merely "nonsense defended by violence," a negative theory attempting to promise all things to all men. The corporate State idea is only the "big selling appeal of Fascism." It contains all the attributes of Capitalism and has nothing new to offer.

Red Brown, and Black.

Barker, apparently trying to be on-side with all parties came forward clad in a red sweater, brown coat, and black trousers. "Smad" had some difficulty from this stage on wards, owing to interruptions from two young ladies of the same name who were fighting in the next seat and playing with "lollies." We heard Barker say, however, that a policy of economic nationalism and a graded hierarchy of the intelligent minority would be good for us.

Fascism Means War.

Freeman read a lot form books, examined the lovely pre-Nazi Revolution careers of some of the German leaders and said Fascism must lead to war.

There were a number of speakers from the floor. Miss Forde attacked Fascism as a Capitalist bludgeon. Women would cease to be emancipated and would be nothing but the producers of material for the slaughterhouse of imperialistic war. Taylor (No. 1) reminded us that Fascism in practice allowed no opposition and no freedom of expression. Taylor (No. 2) told us that Fascism was based on love and the teachings of Christ. Scotney, in a forceful oration, pointed out that is every activity Fascism must lead to war.

The replies were too long to be reported, and we waited for the judge. A vote was taken first and the motion was lost by 3 votes to 15. Prof. Williams placed Scotney first, Katz second, and Miss Forde third, and found that the main fault with the speeches was irrelevancy.

Prize-Giving.

The Exec. has most graciously announced that they are prepared to grand prizes totalling £2/2/- for contributions to this year's "Spike." Two prizes of £1/1- each are to be awarded—one for literary composition and the other for photography. These prizes are open to all financial members of the Stud. Ass. Here, then, is a wonderful opportunity to recover one's Stud. Ass. fee.