SOLDIER SETTLERS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XLIV, Issue 10133, 10 June 1924, Page 5

SOLDIER SETTLERS.

recent edition of one of the daily papers quoted some remarks made by the chairman of the Marlborough Revaluation Committee on the subject of the revaluation of soldiers' farms. There is quite a remarkable similarity in the decisions of the above committee to the one operating in Mid-Canterbury in their treatment of the Lyndhurst-Lauriston Settlements. It would be interesting to know the explanation of the chairman, if he has any to offer, why there is not more satisfaction felt if their decisions cr recommendations have been carried out, as they .vary considerably, no thought being given to the condition of the land on first occupation. The chairman of the local committee in addition to valuing the properties, broadcasted quite a, lot of advice, as to how to increase the carrying capacity of the land and the folly of crop 'growing. It is a pity such a fund of useful information was not available at the time of the slump. To the average reader, it would appear that the soldier settlers have been treated very generously. It is so easy to say that the rents are reduced and arrears remitted or postponed. The inequality and unfairness of the decisions is our grievance. It is ridiculous to say that, because one settler has paid his rent, his neighbour should have done, so. It is pretty safe to say the rent has been paid with borrowed money, and in almost every instance where a settler has paid his rent he has been penalised in some way. Every settler is, of course, anxious to meet his obligations, and will do so where the Government fulfils its promises to him. "SOLDIER SETTLER."