Inspected by Minister

Manawatu Times, Volume 65, Issue 258, 31 October 1940, Page 10

Inspected by Minister

DANNEVIRKE CAMP VISITED BY HON. P. JONES On Tuesday the Minster of Defence, Hon. Jones, accompanied by Sir Alfred Ransom and Mr. C. W. Fraser, of the Public Works Department, made a two hours’ inspection of the Territorial camp at Dannevirke. The Minister was met by LieutenantColonel W. W. Jeii'erd, the officer commanding, and Major Nolan, second-in-command. Mr. Jones made a thorough inspection of the camp, including the men’s, n.c.o.’s and officers’ tents, mess rooms, the cook-houses and the quartermaster’s store, and was particularly pleased with the very excellent quality of the under-clothing issued to trainees. The camp hospital was also visited, the Minister chatting pleasantly to the patients.

Representations were made to the Minister regarding several improvements required in view of the extension of the camp until March 31, including the enlargement of the men’s cookhouse, and also the provision of a more adequate supply of hot water, and post office banking facilities for the camp. The Minister authorised the carrying out of improvements to the cook-house and promised to givo other matters brought under his attention consideration on his return to Wellington.

The Minister watched the Territorials carrying out their normal training activities, taking a very keen interest in the work.

Speaking before his departure for Wellington the Minister said he was very pleased with the camp, the work "being carried out and the fine physique of the young men. They were a splea*

did type of young New Zealanders and from what he had seen they were receiving excellent training. ‘‘l do appreciate the very real interest being taken in the welfare of the young men by the citizens of Dannevirke and I can say that it is greatly appreciated,” said the Minister. Regarding the showgrounds, the Minister mentioned that it was an excellent site for the camp, and he said he also appreciated the fine manner in which the Dannevirke A. and P. Association had met the Army authorities in connection witn making the grounds available for military training. Before leaving the camp, the Minister and the other visitors were the guests of Lieutenant-Colonel JelTcrd at morning tea.