CONDITIONS IN RUSSIA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20375, 2 October 1929, Page 11

CONDITIONS IN RUSSIA.

IMPRESSIONS OF VISITOR. HAPPIER THAN UNDER TSAR. Australian and N.Z. Tress Association. (Received October 1. 5.5 p.m.) LONDON. Sept. 30. In marked contrast to the account of conditions in Russia given recently by two Kentish miners is the impression of that country given to the Swansea Rotavians by Mr. Dan Thomas, secretary of a colliery company and Lord Melchett's principal Cardiff secretary. Mr. Thomas says he did not sec one illclad child in Russia. All seemed to be well nourished. Tho cnliro nation had only the good of Russia at heart. The men perfonned the most drab duties solely because they believed they were helping Russia. The distribution of happiness was far greater than ever it was under the Tsarist regime. ; . •

PRISONERS MADE HAPPY. GAOL METHODS DEPICTED. LONDON, Sept. 23. " You want the best prisons. Wo have them." the Soviet seems to say, according to tho Riga correspondent of the Times. " Tho bright, happy and gay faces, reflecting similar minds and bodies, slowly being coaxed back to health," forms part of tho affecting picture of life in the Ogpu (secret police) prisons displayed in the Soviet's own film. Official newspapers explain that this film of prison life has been niado for propaganda purposes. It is hoped to popularise the Soviet's punitive methods abroad. Izvcstia says the film is a real work of art. It shows prisoners varying useful and agreeablo work with leisurely strolling among most beautiful orangeries, gardens and fields.