WAR FUNDS.

Hokitika Guardian, 18 July 1919, Page 1

WAR FUNDS.

QUESTION OF DISPOSAL.

Wellington, July 16

The New Zealand Returned Soldiers’ Association has issued a statement on the subject of war funds, in which it states that some months ago the executive ot the Association began to investigate the present situation in reference to the funds, and their ultimate disposal. From the information available, it appeared that a sum in the region of _£i,700,000 remained unexpended from funds collected lor war purposes. The executive lias decided to demand the immediate appointment of a Royal Commission to investigate the whole question of war funds, and lias notified the Minister accordingly- It recommends that the Commission should consist of live members, comprising a stipendiary magistrate as chairman, and a representative each irom the Returned Soldiers’ Association, the War Funds’ Council, the Patriotic Societies’ Advisory Board, and the Red Cross. The order of reference ot the Commission should be the broadest possible, and the recommendations should immediately be laid before the Department. The investigation should include : (1) The raising of public binds for war purposes and their administration, with particular reference to the purposes for which they have been raised and the economy in their administration.

(2) The best uses to which the remaining funds should be devoted, with particular reference to the liquidation of assets and to the most efficient means of administration for any war work which may still be necessary.

(3) The framing of recommendations with reference to providing, in the case of a future war, for the needs which, in this case, the war funds have been raised to meet.