WIVES’ ALLOWANCES

Grey River Argus, 14 May 1943, Page 2

WIVES’ ALLOWANCES

WARNING BY JUDGE. P.A. AUCKLAND, May 13 A public warning was issued by Mr Justice Callan that if further cases came before him of fraud by women in respect of allowances granted to them as reputed wives of soldiers he would impose imprisonment. This statement was made when Eveline Hewitt, 34, came up for sentence for false pretences. She was admitted to probation for four years with a condition that she should make restitution of £146, by instalments of £1 weekly. Suppression of her name was refused. ' , His Honour said that a merciful provision had been introduced whereby not only properly married wives of solders got a separation allowance, but also it was extended to their reputed wives. Accused had applied for and obtained such an allowance. The woman was not of a criminal type, according to the information of the female Probation Officer, and this justified him in granting probation, but he had to think of the effect on others. He said that there must be a good many reputed wives’ allowances, and some of the women would doubtless forget' the soldier overseas and do as accused did.