CLOSING OF CAMPS

Greymouth Evening Star, 20 January 1944, Page 3

CLOSING OF CAMPS

SURPLUS MATERIALS DISPOSAL WELLINGTON, January 19. “As the result of New Zealand’s improved strategic position, the War Cabinet recently approved the closing of several Army camps and other defence establishments in various parts of the Dominion,” stated the Acting-Prime Minister (Mr Sulli- : van) to-day. “A complete survey of buildings and equipment in these camps is being undertaken at the . present time, but it will be some r weeks before it is definitely known 'what buildings and equipment will be surplus, and available for disposal. Wherever possible, surpluses are being transferred to meet the requirements of the Armed Services in other districts, and also to fulfil the demands of civil departments, and thereby obviate the additional ex- ' penditure which would be incurred by the Government if such demands

were met by the provision of new buildings and equipment. A survey of the future requirements of the Armed Services is also being undertaken.

“I am informed,” continued Mr Sullivan, “that, there is already a deluge of applications from public organisations, private firms and. percons for the nurchase of Defence buildings, and it is certain there will be some delay in acknowledging these applications and supplying details and prices, as the same will not be available until the surveys referred to are completed. However, I am sure the intending purchasers will appreciate the position and show patience during the next few weeks. The Government is very anxious to see that all surplus buildings and equipment are used to the best advantage, and must, therefore, give attention not only to providing for immediate requirements, but also post-war requirements for rehabilitation of returned servicemen, indus-

try, health camps, youth . centres,., motor and tourist camps and other public organisations. The establishment of an organisation efficiently to handle this work has already been discussed by the War Cabinet, and in the near future a further public statement will be macle.”