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Salient. Victoria University Student Newspaper. Vol. 38, No. 18. July 23rd 1975

The Inevitable ..

The Inevitable ...

Next came two long motions by The Inevitable Lloyd Jobson (yawn) concerned with increased rates and their effects. After a short nap, we woke up only to find that both Lloyd's motions had been carried, with a minimum of discussion (except for Lloyd of course; he won the chocolate fish), Basically, the first motion said that in view of the increased rates and their effects, the Association be authorised to institute any action or make any statement regarding problems in Urban Development or its policies. Damned if anyone knows what it means, but it's now Association Policy. The other motion suggested a petition opposing the rates increase. The text of the petition was read out, and the motion carried.

Speaking to Lloyd afterwards, however, some things became a little clearer. Basically, the objection is against the Wellington City Council in developing plans for the motorway, new Airport terminal, Victoria Street extension, two new malls, four garden schemes, a new yacht jetty, and like projects - thus, in effect, increasing rates by 30%. An increase in rates means an increase in food prices and rents, etc. which is passed on to people in the lower and fixed income groups at their expense. It would appear that, for the council at least, things matter more than people. Instead of these grandiose plans, more attention should be given to low cost rental accommodation and the provision of adequate welfare and health services. Many things stand out; eg. the inadequate drainage systems in the Newtown and Aro Street areas giving rise to damp housing and bronchial complaints. Also, the absence of prenatal care centres, creches, day care centres, the provision of registered nurses in every suburb, as well as other welfare services. Still other areas which are neglected by the Council are those concerned with the question of alternative waste management and water management programmes, incorporating recycling techniques which would reduce the cost to the consumer and form the basis for alternative industries. So this is the guts of Lloyd's objections, which is now the Association's guts too.

Peter Aagard, "liberal shit"

Peter Aagard, "liberal shit"