CARGO PILLAGING

Evening Star, Issue 24290, 3 September 1942, Page 2

CARGO PILLAGING

DUNEDIN FIRMS' LOSSES The executive of the Dunedin Chamber of -Commerce met yesterday, and. further discussed the pillaging of cargo. It was decided strongly to support the resolution of the Canterbury Chamber of Commerce asking the Government to take action to stamp out the practice. ■ The secretary produced figures showing that nine Dunedin firms had lost over £1.200 worth of goods in recent months. It was noticeable that commodities in short supply, such as cigarettes, stockings, gloves, tea, sheeting, ■ etc., were items especially selected for pillaging. Regarding the Wellington statement that most of the pillaging occurred on overseas boats, it was obvious from the figures that it was just as serious on the New Zealand coast as on overseas consignments.—lt was agreed that the executive should approach the insurance companies regarding the matter. The following motion received the unanimous support of members“ That this chamber expresses concern that a training centre for returned men has not yet been established in Dunedin, and considers that returned men should not be sent away from their homes for such training if this can be avoided It therefore urges the Rehabilitation Council to expedite the erection of a training centre in Dunedin.” Other matters discussed included proposals for the standardisation of houses and furniture, compensation for damage to property taken over by the military authorities, and the question of representation of commercial interests in Washington.