THE SECOND DIVISION.

Taranaki Daily News, 13 November 1917, Page 6

THE SECOND DIVISION.

HANDBOOK FOR KESERVISTS, WHAT THE SECOND DIVISION LEAGUE HAS DONE.

The handbook issued by the Second Division League for reservists of that division contains practically all the information that the reservist should have for the protecton of his interests and of his dependents. The pamphlet nets' out t!lt objects of the league, and summarises the regulation relating to balloting, appeals for exemption, and the Tounds for the same, medical examination and ftll matters relating to pay und allotments. It also deals with the matter of financial assistance, pensions, and the protection of soldiers' property. In re"ard to the last item, it points out that the War Regulaions Ast has afforded the reservist protection against arrest, bankruptcy, distress for rent, and execution of civil process. Figures are given in detail of the substantial increases in pensions and allowances which will come into force next New Year's Day as the result of the league's representation to the Government, and the concessions secured are summarised as follows:

(1) The adoption of the principle that the State should take full responsibility from the time a reservist enters camp. (2) A definite promise that no reservist shall be sent into camp until three months after the Gazette- notice of baltoting, and probably three months clear after the medical examination. (3 Pensions for disablement to ho by schedule with a definite minimum amount for a definite period. (4) The incapacitated soldier and his dependents to bo restored as nearly as possible to their pre-war standard of living. (o) A' special allowance of up to £1 per week to cover wages lost through undergoing special medical treatment. (6) Allowance for an attendant increased from 10s to £ 1 per week. (7) Special pension to guardian of motherless children. (5) Pension on death of soldier increased. (<J) Financial assistance increased from possible grant of £2 per week to possible grant of £3 per week, with prospect for pre-war standard being considered. (10) Removal of differentiation between balloted and voluntary recruits in regard to application for financial assistance. (11) Promise of favorable consideration of special maternity grants to wives of seldiers. 12) Promise of consideration of provision of medical attention in severe cases of illness. (13) Right of applicant for pension not to be affected if death of soldier I occurs while undergoing punishment for I offence committed by him, ' (14) Promise of special provision to

j protect dependents of soldier while pay is stopped as a result of punishment for ' misconduct.