We  should  consider  that  all  educational  funds  should  be  handed  over  to
them  to  utilise^  and  to  carry  out  schemes  with.
9356.  Would  that  be  with  regard  to  all  endowments  of  the  locality? —
That  is  what  we  anticipate.
9357.  {Chairman.)  Do  I  understand  your  objection  to  the  imposition  of
rates  to  be  grounded  on  a  belief  that  rates  are  not  necessaiy  because  there
is  money  enough,  or  upon  a  belief  that  public  opinion  would  not  sanction
the  imposition  of  rates,  or  upon  an  idea  that  it  would  be  unfair  to  the
private  schools? — ^All  three.  Might  I  point  out  the  dangers  likely  to
result  from  rate-aided  schools,  and  the  difficulties  that  would  meet  us.
There  would  be  the  difficulty  and  the  fear  that  it  might  lead  to  free
education  all  I'ound.  May  I  show  how?  I  do  not  think  that  the  poorer
parent  would  submit  to  see  a  larger  amount  per  child  allocated  to  his
wealthier  friend  than  his  own  child  receives.  He  would  claim,  and  I  think
with  some  justice,  that  he  had  a  right  to  share  to  the  same  extent  as  his
wealthier  friend ;  and  it  would  ultimately  result  in  his  claiming  the  use  of
these  schools  for  his  own  children  as  well.
