AN UNUSUAL CLAIM

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 124, 12 February 1918, Page 6

AN UNUSUAL CLAIM

BREAKAGES ON TRANSPORTS. A grievance of returning boldiers— charges for losses on homeward-bound transports—lids been-brought under the notice of the Minister of Defence (Sir James Allen) by the Mayor (Mr. J. P. Luke). Writing under date .January 30, the Mayor states:— "On the- arrival of the transport recently 1 was approached by seme of the officers with the request that _ I should take steps to liquidate the claim of the Defence Department on the men for losses and breakages of jness-voom equipment. I understand that losses are paid out of regimental funds ou the outward trip, but on the trip bacu with wounded, sick,, etc., the men have no funds to draw on to liquidate claims. . .

"I do not wish to express my opinion as to the losses on the 's recent voyage as compared with other transports returning to New Zealand, but i do think it is hard to expect il.e men to make.the differences up ;ut «f the money (in some cases very little) .coming to them. I have been "urged to •eel a grant from tile various patriotic societies, but I know, and I think you can appreciate, the difficulties, tttat will be presented by the societies. I would respectfully ask you to *nstract the Department not to press the matter tor payment as against the men, and I think it is desirable that you should make a public announcement on the matter, so that those in .'.ontrol of the transports returning will realise their responsibility in connection with the subject matter contained in this letter and similar cases that may arise. I enclose herewith for your information the several accounts as submitted to i The Minister has replied that the matter is now receiving consideration.