SOLDIER SETTLERS

Grey River Argus, 3 May 1944, Page 2

SOLDIER SETTLERS

Freehold Scheme in Waikato

P.A. WELLINGTON, May 2. Prior to last election, Mr. D. V. Bryant, who inaugurated the Waikato Settlement Scheme discussed with members of the Government the tenure that should be offered to soldier settlers. He urged that they should be given the option .of settling on a form of freehold “embodying safeguards against speculation,” which have been specialty designed for the Waikato plan. On Sentember 9 last the Prime Minister sent the following telegram to Mr. Bryant, agreeing to this option being given: “In reply to your letter and telegram regarding the Government’s attitude towards freehold for returned servciemen, I wish to assure you definitely that the form of freehold granted ‘in connection with the Waikato land settlement scheme is acceptable to the Government, anawill be granted to returned servicemen under the rehabilitation scheme if it is asked for by any of them.” Just prior to Mr. Fraser’s departure for England, Mr. Bryant telegraphed him as follows, suggesting that this assurance be made public: “Suggest make public throughout New Zealand your wire of September 9 last re freehold option for servicemen, with your assurance that same would be carried out. I presume you have no objection. My reason is that some people are becoming sceptical.” On April 6 last, Mr. Fraser replied: “Replying to your telegram, I have no objection to your making a statement as suggested. Kind "’regards.— P. Fraser.”