HIGH RENTS.

Taranaki Daily News, 3 July 1917, Page 2

HIGH RENTS.

WELLINGTON CONDITIONS. Tn the House of Representatives on Friday Mr. A. H. Hindmarsh (Weftington South) had something to say on the rents of Wellington. The position was a very serious one. The legislation taken in this matter had, however, only helped, to raise the rent. Tenants, imposed upon iby landlords, feared to bring their cases before the court, as a valuer would 'be appointed who would give evidence before the court as to the high value of 'property, and judgment would ho given accordingly. He would ask the Prime Minister to follow the example of the Asquith Government on the matter. There were cases of three and four families living in the same house in Wellington. Soldiers went a'way to the front and left their wives and families at the mercy of the landlords. He knew of a case where a woman with a family of live children had had the rent raised 5s a week. Cries of "Shame!" In conclusion, Mr. Hindmarsh made an appeal to the Prime Minister on the matter. He was going to put the patriotism of the Prime Minister to the test, and see whether his patriotism was fep service or otherwise.