CAMP CONDITIONS

New Zealand Herald, Volume 79, Issue 24178, 21 January 1942, Page 4

CAMP CONDITIONS

gj ri —On Sunday I visited camp for the purpose ot seeing-my son. An inspection of the mess arrangements surprised and disgusted me. Crude and insanitary is the only way of describing it No provision to cover vegetables prepared for the next day, which were open to flies and dust; dixies in a dirty condition, and deposited on the dusty ground, also covered with flies. My son informs me that the eating utensils provided by troops have to be washed in a common tub, and before half-way through one can imagine the state of the so-called hot water. Such conditions would not be tolerated in an ordinary eating-house The troops can put up with rough conditions, but in common decency the camp authorities should see to it that the ordinary laws of health apply. My experience of territorial camps extends over 15 years, and I have never yet seen conditions as bad. We hear constantly that nothing is too good for our soldiers, and no expense spared. Well, take a few men off the memorial and provide decent racks and building, and sterilised and hot water supply* The boys deserve it. and we should demand it. The Health Department should also require that the meat supplied is delivered in a covered condition, and not on an open truck, uncovered and exposed to dust. Disgusted Pabent.