Delay In Processing Grant Applications

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30146, 1 June 1963, Page 12

Delay In Processing Grant Applications

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, May 31. At least 800 applications for grants from the Golden Kiwi lottery profits had still to be considered, said the Minister for Internal Affairs .(Sir Leon Gotz) today. Delays in distributing profits, since legislation was passed transferring the responsibility for _ distributing lottery funds from the Minister of Internal Affairs to distribution committees, had several causes, he said. Committees had not been able to meet as frequently as desired because their members were voluntary workers and meetings had' to be arranged to suit their convenience.

The volume of applications and careful investigation required prevented the speedy disposal of applications. Considerable correspondence between the applicants and the secretary of the committee was often necessary. “The committees for the welfare of the aged, for recreation and youth activities and for social amenities and

services have already met. formulated policieo to work under, considered applications for assistance, approved grants and subsidies, and made future commitments." said Sir Leon Gotz.

“A committee U. encourage cultural and artistic activities has not been formed so far because it is intended that the Queen Elizabeth U Arts Council of New Zealand, to be established by legislation during the forthcoming session of Parliament, should be appointed the distribution committee tor this purpose Until it is established, capital grants for cultural and artistic purposes are being made by the Minister of Internal Affairs on the recommendation of the .Arts Advisory Council." Medical and scientific research committees had not met to consider proposals, because suggestions made so far w ere being investigated, said Sir Leon Gotz. Major research projects would require a substantial guaranteed income over a period of years and would have to be carefully examined.