SOLDIER SETTLERS.

Taranaki Daily News, 24 February 1922, Page 4

SOLDIER SETTLERS.

The action taken by the Dominion executive of the New Zealand Returned Soldiers’ Association to ascertain how the ex-soldier settlers were progressing on the larger soldier settlements in New Zealand, was not only appropriate, but a good stroke of policy. Moreover, it shows that the association is keeping in touch with its members in a practical and sympathetic manner, and evincing a lively regard for their welfare. The (times are such as are likely to have tried these new settlers rather severely, so it was well to ascertain how they have been faring on the land, whether they were being fairly treated by the Department, or, if not, what could be done to inprove conditions and prospects. By means of the replies the executive were able to receive first hand information, and, if necessary, to act thereon. It is certainly to note that, on the whole, favorable progress is being made, though doubtless many have been disappointed at the unfavorable turn taken by the markets for produce. Naturally there are some complaints, but these were inevitable. Lack of roads is what many settlers have been obliged to endure for a number of years, but the high rents wliieh oppress some of the soldier settlers are what they agreed to when they took up their holdings, though the returns for produce were not then expected to drop so low. Tn this matter, doubtless, the Government will render temporary help, especially to all who are making the best of their opportunities. The pleasing feature of the replies is that the majority put a brave face on the position of affairs, just what might be expected from the men who earned such a high reputation in the war.