REMOVING AN IMPOSITION

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 168, 6 October 1927, Page 10

REMOVING AN IMPOSITION

A GROSS imposition on unfortunate debtors is to be removed by the amended Magistrate’s Court Bill now before Parliament. One clause in this Bill provides for the serving of summonses by registered post, instead of by the present system of service by police or bailiffs, who visit the houses and even the places of employment of debtors for the purpose of handing to them what is popularly (or unpopularly) known as “a bluey.” Added to the unpleasantness of personal service is the irritation of the “mileage” charge debited against the debtor further to harass him. The Minister of Justice had a return made recently, and found that in twelve months £14,768 had been paid in mileage—out of the pocket of the debtor into that of the bailiff—which meant, said Mr. Rolleston, that people were being very heavily charged in connection with such eases. There is no sympathy for men who can pay their debts and will not. Such men are few, however, and there is rank injustice in needlessly adding to the burden of a debtor in the matter of “mileage.” It may be added that Court charges and the cost of summonses are altogether out of proportion, and that creditors sometimes needlessly employ solicitors to sue for small amounts at the cost of the debtor. The question of the Court fees charged debtors is one that certainly requires consideration.