RETURNED SOLDIERS’ CONFERENCE.

Hokitika Guardian, 30 May 1919, Page 1

RETURNED SOLDIERS’ CONFERENCE.

NO POLITICS

[PER PRESS ASSOCIATION. —COPYRIGHT.]

CHRISTCHURCH, May 29. At the Returned soldiers Conference, the proposal for the Association to take part in political action was rejected

on division by 50 to 24. Mr Andrews thanked all who had supported the remit, and also the other side for the courteous way in which they had treated the matter. Though defeated, they were not discouraged, and were going to fight oil in a- constitutional manner. There was no fear of a split as far as the supporters' of the remit were concerned. At the next conference lie was sure that ho would be .returning thanks for a victory and not for a defeat. Remits dealing with tubercular and venereal cases were considered. In regard to tjie former it was agreed that Wie Government was attempting to cope with the position, but that sanatorium accommodation was insufficient, and a. resolution was passed protesting against tlxc attitude of the residents of Devonport, which forced the authorities to close the Narrow Neck Camp.

The delay in fitting men with artificial limbs was discussed, and a remit was carried to the effect that an expert should be obtained, and placed in charge of a central factory, and better allowances and accommodation be provided' for limbless men ' when away from home for treatmnt. The Committee’s recommendations in regard to pay and gratuities were adopted, and it was agreed to advocate that the ration allowance of 2/-, to undischarged soldiers, outpatients at lies pitals, be increased immediately to 4s per day. The matter of demanding an extra shilling a day for members of tunnelling corps, to bring pay to Gf- was considered.

The. British rate was referred to the inconiing Executive in connection with the allowances to widowed mothers. It was decided to approach the Government to have such put on a betterfooting.