THE HOSPITAL SHIP.

Taranaki Daily News, 24 September 1915, Page 4

THE HOSPITAL SHIP.

NO NEW PLYMOUTH ASSISTANCE. STATEMENT BY THE MAYOR. It is not proposed that New Plymouth should provide any organised assistance towards the equipment of the second hospital ship whicli is to bo given by New Zealand. "I think the system of equipping hospital ships from the public's pocket is wrong," said the Mayor (Mr. J. E. Wilson) in conversation with a Daily News reporter yesterday. "I do not propose, therefore, to make any public appeal for funds for the second hospital ship. I think the Government should And all the money required, and as far as New Plymouth is concerned nothing will be done. If anyone desires to send subscriptions for the Bhip I will be pleased to remit them to the Government, but people will have to do so on their own initiative."

Mr. Wilson stated that the Mayors of the smaller towns had not been approached by the Governor, but recently the Mayors of the four principal cities met the Governor in Wellington, and after hia Excellency explained the proposal it was agreed by the Mayors that they would guarantee the necessary amount. The following contributions had 'been arranged:—Auckland £4000; Wellington £3000; Canterbury £ssoo; and Otago £2500; a total of £12,000. This sum is in addition to the articles of equipment enumerated by the Governor, and is estimated to be sufficient, with amounts he has in hand, to provide for the present requirements. In connection with this matter, the Mayoress has received a telegram from Mrs, J. P. Luke (Mayoress of Wellington) asking her what New Plymouth is prepared to do with regard to the Hospital Ship. Mrs. Wilson wishes anyone desirous of helping in any way to communicate with her as soon as possible, as she has to send word back to Wellington