DOMINION'S PART.

Taranaki Daily News, 18 August 1916, Page 5

DOMINION'S PART.

STATEMENT BY MR. ALLEN. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Dunedin, Yesterday. The Hon. James Allen states that the New Zealand hospital ships Marama and Maheno are now doing splendid work conveying sick and wounded soldiers between France ami England. Their services are of an imperial character, and • hey are not used exclusively for the conveyance of New Zealanders The extent i>f their work may be gauged by the re■tord of the Maheno, which on July 8 last took no fewer than 1141 sick and wounded from Havre, a record which, the Minister says, seems almost incredible. The Minister announces that the supply ol' small arms ammunition is now good, and there is a prospect of an ample supply of artillery ammunition. The Lewis quick-firing guns are proving excellent weapons in the training camps and the work of training the men has, in consequence, been exceptionally far advanced. As regards money for the supply of comforts for the sick and wounded nt Home, both the High Commissioner and the War Contingent Association have substantial funds in hand and tinNew Zealand patriotic societies have contributed generously. DESERTED TO THE ENEMY. Wellington, Yesterday. Mr. Massey states that information has been received that one of our men has deserted to the enemy. The man's name was such as not to give any indication of German origin and 110 suspicion was aroused by him prior to the date on which he deserted. Until detailed official information of the truth of the present report has been received the man's r.ame will not be disclosed. This is being done in order to prevent possible injustice to his parents, who are resident in New Zealand, should the report on investigation prove unfounded.