LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 221, 12 June 1919, Page 6

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

THE STRANDED NEW ZEALANDERS

Sir,—Very strong dissatisfaction exists throughout the Dominion at tho tardy and inadequate steps taken by 'the powers that be to facilitate the return to this country of those unfortunate New Zealamlers (and iii'tending visitors) who for many weeks past have teen held vp in Sydney at much expenso and inconveuiencp io all concerned.

During the virulent and disastrous outbreak of influenza in New Zealand last November the health, authorities did not consider it necessary to place restrictions on shipping between here and Australia. Yet the epidemic in the latter country, spread over many months, has not, with its larger population, proved either actually or relatively nearly so deadly in its effects. "Why, then, in the face of this lighter visitation, are the present vexatious lestrictions maintained a day longer than is necessary? There cannot be any-valid reason or excuse why, weeks ago, every branded New Zealander should not have been permitted to return to his country, as lie- was rightly entitled to do. Under proper .supervision by the health authorities can it lift admitted that their earlier return would have increased the risk of infection here, seeing that influenza, is and has been prevalent in this country since tho latter part of last year, and that further, during such period many ships from overseas have arrived at our ports, landing many thousands of people direct from the oentres of infection? It may he said that New Zealand, geographically speaking, is unfortunately placed by'her isolation from other great countries of the world, but why the fact should be further accentuated by absurd shipping restrictions—which sever communication with her nearest and most important neighbour—it would take the wisdom of King Solomon to fathom. Such measures are proving a doubttu! advertisement to the country, and w'jnt wonder if, under the circumstances, they are the means of making her the laughing stock of her own people, and of those who travel in other am, Auckland, Juno 0.