ITEMS OF INTEREST

Bay of Plenty Times, Volume LXX, Issue 13669, 17 June 1942, Page 4

ITEMS OF INTEREST

Youthful Taxpayer,

Few people escape the attentions of the Commissioner of Taxes but youth is comparatively free from such worries as income tax. A lad of 16 years of age, who is employed by the Southland News Company, is probably the youngest worker in New Zealand who pays income tax. His taxable income, after the usual allowances, is £34 a year. The calls for military service and the provisions in the ward are partly responsible for his rapid promotion and the consequent assumpton of the and the consequent assumption of the those of more mature age.

“Put the Skirts on Now!” AAUien the Hat'uma branch of the New Zealand Farmers’ Union was discussing last week the problem of what protective measures would be given country women if an emergency arose, the chairman. Mr AT AAk Stratford, stated that the Home Guard, delegated to static defence, would be called out to serve in its home locality. He had, however, heard two men say that they would not go but would remain to protect their womenfolk. A voice might as well put the skirts on now!” Another member contended that such an action would amount to refusal of duty and be punished accordingly.

Not According to Plan,

AVhen is a bull not a bull? This question might well have been asked by a certain corporal when out on manoeuvres last week (states the Wanganui Chronicle). During one stage it was necessary for him to lead his detachment in an attack, which meant them crossing a broad field containing a maize patch, in one corner of which two large pedigree bulls pawed the ground and shook their massive heads as they surveyed the khaki-clad figure clambering over the barbed wire. Valiantly the corporal led the column taking care to keep a canny eye turned towards the now grazing bovines. All went “according to plan” until high maize was reached and civilisation in the form of the fence was cut off by a. sea of green, shoulder-high stalks. Suddenly, an ominous rustling, crashing and snuffling heralded the approach of a ferocious monster. With a cry of alarm, the corporal threw up his hands,' and covered the distance to the fence in a matter of seconds. Behind him the maize parted, and two startled and squealing pigs joined their comrades in the open.