N.Z. REPATRIATES

Grey River Argus, 20 September 1945, Page 5

N.Z. REPATRIATES

FROM SINGAPORE EXPECTED TO-MORROW P.A. WELLINGTON, Sept. 19 The first aircraft from Singapore carrying released New Zealand Air Force and' other service personnel is due to arrive at Auckland on about Friday said the Minister of Defence (Mr. Jones) to-night. He added that R.N.Z.A.F. aircraft would continue to arrive at close intervals in the next few weeks bringing back freed New Zealanders from the Far East. “As may be imagined, many difficulties had to be overcome,” said Mr. Jones. “Communications .have been uncertain and the whole operation has been greatly complicated by the failure of the Japanese throughout the war to notify the Allies of the location of prisoners of war and' internees. However, the organisation is settling down and I hope we will be able to curtail the ordeal of these prisoners and internees by effecting their speedy return to New Zealand. "Transport aircraft will land at Whenuapai, but arangements have been made to tranpsort the passengers immediately to various reception centres. Each service will take over its own personnel but the Army will also be responsible for civilians arriving by these aircraft. Mr.’ Jones asked that next-of-kin, who might be in Auckland should not endeavour to meet the arrivals at Whenuapai. “We want to get them to the various service, reception centres as soon as possible after their arrival and next-of-kin may meet them there if they desire. It is likely that repatriates will be detained’ overnight for medical examinations,” Mr? Jones continued. "They are coming from areas where tropical disabilites are prevalent and naturally we want to see that they have the fullest medical attention without delay. “It may thus be possible that the repatriates will not be proceeding immediately to their homes. They will be given travelling warrants, food and clothing coupons, and will be assisted in any other way necessary. We shall certainly do all we can to meet their needs after their trying time in Japanese hands,” the Minister concluded'.