AID IN WAR EFFORT

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23773, 28 September 1940, Page 13

AID IN WAR EFFORT

AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION YEAR'S ACTIVITIES REVIEWED The part played by the Automobile Association (Auckland) in preparations for national emergency is detailed in the report which will bo submitted to the annual meeting of the association on October 9. Women's classes in motoring mechanics hare been conducted at nine centres, and a fire auxiliary corps of 500 members was organised, in addition to the compilation of a register of members available for emergency service. Donations amounting to £4395 have been made for war purposes, including a share for two ambulances being given to the forces by all the associations. The association's accumulated funds stand at £28,654. Membership increased during the year by 1510 to 34,463, including 759 members on active service. Eight members of the staff are also in the forces, including four patrols. "The most pressing legislation this year has been the rationing of petrol," "the report continues. "In the main motorists responded wholeheartedly to the call to conserve petrol, but having regard to the unemployment caused in the motor industry, and loss of business inflicted upon the trade, there has followed a widespread demand for more liberal treatment. The association has supported this move through the motor unions." Close observation was maintained on the condition of roads and bridges, with resultant improvements, the report states. - The association will maintain a close interest in the proposal for an eastern outlet from Auckland and also in the scheme for modernising the Great South Road between Auckland and Papakura. Three thousand new signs were erected, making the total 30,000.