Overhaul Of Rag Collections Urged

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30841, 28 August 1965, Page 17

Overhaul Of Rag Collections Urged

(New Zealand Preet Anaciationj AUCKLAND, August 27. An overhaul of the system by which rags and clothing were collected for charitable institutions was recommended by a Supreme Court jury.

Harry Stanley Peter Doran, aged 39, and Esma Lilian Stewart, aged 45, represented by Mr D. Pain, had pleaded not guilty to a charge that they had solicited rags and clothes under a false pretence. Discharging them, Mr Justice Gresson said he was happy to receive all the recommendations. These were:— The system of collections for charitable organisations be overhauled. The wording “agreed percentage” between the organisation and the collection be shown on the pamphlet.

The name of the organisation and the collector be on the pamphlet. The pamphlet be approved and verified by the police before circulation.

Commenting on the rider, Mr R. D. McVicker, secretary of the Crippled Children Society, said: "Licensing would eliminate the fly-by-night dealers and enable local authorities to regulate the flow of collection bags over suburban front fences.'' The Rev. M. H. Fiest, secretary of the Mission to Lepers, said: “Rag collection is a cut-throat business. Collectors all too often cover the same ground at the same time. Co-operative collections would also help to eliminate the problems associated with the rags-for-charity business.”

We lead the world in wealth and power. But we also lead in pollution and blight and despoilment— Stewart Udall, United States Secretary of the Interior.