HOSPITAL RATING INCREASES

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24902, 15 June 1946, Page 2

HOSPITAL RATING INCREASES

NO MEETING WITH PRIME MINISTER « EVERY EFFORT WITHOUT SUCCESS ” (P.A.) WELLINGTON, June 14. The New Zealand Counties’ Association has postponed its annual conference till after its president has secured an interview with the Prime Minister (the Rt. Hon. P. Fraser) to discuss increased hospital rating. In letters received by the Makara County Council yesterday the secretary of the association stated that, in spite of several attempts the president (Mr W. G. Belton) had been unable to see the Prime Minister. When the meeting was achieved the conference would be held. ‘‘Every effort has been made without success.” said the first letter, dated May 15. “The Municipal Association joined with the New Zealand Counties’ Association in an appeal to the Prime Minister on April 18 for a conference, but no reply had yet been received. The president and executive feel that as.the question is apparently a matter of Government policy it is absolutely necessary to discuss the situation with the Prime Minister, and they are greatly disappointed that the head of the Government does not realise the gravity of the position. Efforts will still be made to arrange the meeting at the earliest opportunity.” Cr. E. Windley said there did not seem much hope for taxpayers when the Prime Minister took up such an attitude.