REVALUATION BOARD

Dominion, Volume 18, Issue 194, 12 May 1924, Page 6

REVALUATION BOARD

NOT AN “ARMCHAIR” INSTITUTION The value of the Dominion Revaluation Board to tho soldier settlers of the Dominion was stressed by the Minister of Lands (Hon. D. H. Guthrie) in an interview with a Dominion representative on Saturday. “The hoard,” said Mr. Guthrie “with its headquarters in Wellington, has, as ihe result of the functioning of the various committees, been able to make final determinations and issue final decisions to applicants in 1231 cases. This also included negotiations with private mortgagees for cancellation or reductions of such mortgages. Much success has so far been achieved in these negotiations. Decisions have also been given in 171 additional cases in which the board is negotiating with private mortgagees with a view of further assisting the applicants in ,the way of reductions and discharges. The total cases, therefore, dealt with is 1402.. “In addition to many meetings in Wellington, the board has also held them in other centres such as Hamilton, New Plymouth, Blenheim, Nelson, Hokitika, Christchurch, and Oaraaru. and has, in addition, made personal visits to many settlements and farms in all parts of tho Dominion. These inspection visits are necessary, and is an indication of an earnest desire that the Dominion Board should not be an armchair beard. Personal acquaintance with conditions is essential, and the presence of the board has created confidence.” 'Che Minister added that ae tho Dominion Board was in possession of other contributing factors it was generally more generous in its determinations of postponements than the several district committees were. Tho board has also carried out negotiations for the discharge of reductions of private mortgages and debts owing by soldiers.