FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE BOARD.

North Otago Times, Volume CVI, Issue 13975, 11 September 1917, Page 2

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE BOARD.

TWO UNSATISFACTORY CASES. Speaking on the subject of the work done by the Financial' Assistance Board, Sir James Allen stated in the House of Representatives that the total number of eases dealt with up to August 31st was 3190. The expenditure for the month'was £17,074. The amount expended up (o August 31st was £46,516. He wanted, lie said, the assistance of members and the country generally to protect the Board and Parliament in regard to a Haw which had been discovered. He would give two cases:— "A woman with two children. The Board granted full rent, Ilusbamyvas previously earning £3 per week." •'Private information 'has just been received to the effect that the applicant has purchased a. piano for £94 on the instalment system, Applicant" been asked for an explanation,., and as to whether she can show reason why the Board's grant of rent should not be reduced, The action of the piano agent in . arranging such a purchase with a soldier's wife certainly lends itself to criticism.

t "A woman with cue child. Husband formerly a tradesman, earning about £3 10s per week. A few months after the husband's departure with the reinforcements this applicant purchased furniture, amounting to £54 .'is lid. It appears that this furniture is intended for one room on!}-, and comprises:— Carpet square £M, mirror £.'!, brass bowl £1 2s fid, two pictures £3 ss, settee £lO 10s, carpet sweeper £1 17s (id, two palm standi £1 3s, tub chair U 15s. The balance represents expensive curtains, cushions, and covers.' It is understood that this applicant has resided in three or four different towns. The Board has authorised payment of the rent in this case, but has declined to pass any payment on account of furniture."