PATRIOTIC FUNDS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24417, 1 October 1940, Page 11

PATRIOTIC FUNDS

ro I'HE EDITOH Sir, —It is against my principle to reply to anonymous letters, but the let* i ter in your issue of the 28lh inst., under the heading of “ Patriotic Funds,” calls for a reply. As the representative of the local Patriotic Council on the No. 2 Committee to which your correspondent refers, the writer is able to supply the information “South Otago” asks for. The committee consisted of 14 members. The chairman and several other members were returned soldiers. This is mentioned to show that the committee was sympathetic and capable of ensuring that returned men and/or dependents shall have a fair deal. This committee spent the whole day till 11 o'clock in the evening to ensure adequate relief being given to the men on their return. Its recommendations were adopted by the full conference, and every Patriotic Council in New Zealand is under obligation to give relief on the Mnes laid down by the No 2 Committee. Here is a precis of the principles affirmed: <1) A uniform method of dealing with aid. (2) Formation of interzone committees. (31 A sub-committee appointed from the executive and members nominated by the local branch of the R.S.A. This sub-committee to be appointed as agent for expenditure of provincial funds. This clause should satisfy your correspondent. If he is still in doubt he is at liberty to peruse the full report of the conference and the sub-commit-tees by calling at my office. The principle was affirmed that it is the Government’s responsibility to look after returned men and their dependents the patriotic fund to be used as temporary and supplementary to the Government’s aid. The Patriotic Council is making its major appeal for funds, and it is the duty of well-wishers of our fighting forces to subscribe liberally so that on their return their requirements may be dealt with in no niggardly spirit. It should be remembered that carping criticism only has the effect of tightening up the purse strings. All districts throughout the province have their direct representative. and " South Otago ” need have no fear of the men not receiving justice when representatives of the calibre of Mr J. H, Stevenson are sent to the council.—l am etc.. James J. Marlow, Princes street south. Sept. 30.