Soldier Settlers.

Hokitika Guardian, 12 August 1921, Page 1

Soldier Settlers.

MINISTER PROMISES assistance. WELLINGTON. August 10. The difficulty under which many returned soldier settlers arc labouring owing to the financial .stringency was recently the subject of representations to the Minister of Lmds by the executive council of the New Zealand Returned Soldiers’ Association. \ deputation pointed out that many ex-sol-diers farmers were left in the position of not being able to discharge their debts to storekeepers who had -applied them hitherto with the necessaries of life on credit, and that they now found it impossible to continue on those lines, Tim nommittoe plaoe<l before 1 ! ister several suggestions which was contended might assist him in deviating some of the hardships being experienced, especially hv those engaged in sheep farming. The Minister received the suggestions favourably, and has now muimiinieatod with tho secretary of tne association in reply. “Tho trouble would appear to concern principally soldier settlors who arc sheepfnrmers and gr. ziers of stock.” lie remarked, “and the difficulties under which they la hour is due primarily'to .tin* poor price ; now obtainable for their wool and fat stock. i have much pleasure in informing von that this matter has received the serious consideration of tin Government. Tt has been derided that tho only solution of the difficulty is in tho direction of providing further financial assistance by 'an adjustment of mortgages, with consequent increase in accommodation, such adjustment to relate only to those soldier settlers who are hard workers, who have done sterling work in the development of their properties, and who. 1 consider should he offered every inducement to remain on their lands!”