THE OLD-AGE PENSION.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 13386, 12 September 1905, Page 5

THE OLD-AGE PENSION.

(Per United Press Association.) AUCKLAND, September 11. A letter was received from tho DeputyRegistrar of Old-ago Pensions at a meeting of tho Charitable Aid Board referring to tlio increased amounts payablo to old-age pensioners under tho amending act of this year, and asking what amount tho board proposed to cliargo pensioners for maintenance at the Costley Homo and what proportion would lie handed to tho men monthly.—Tho Chairman moved—" That tho letter bo referred lo tho Costley Homo and Charitable Aid Committee, with power to act.." —Mr Garland said lie was informed that 10s per week was now being paid to pensionors. Wliilo he was ono of thoso who thought tho incrcaeo was justified in view of tho buoyant condition of tho rcvonue, ha could hardly belicvo if until informed upon tho very best authority that tho provisions of tho act had been put into force by Order-in-Council. It seemed to him very .extraordinary that such a courso of procedure should bo 'adopted. Tho act so far had only passed through tho Lower House, and it had not yet boon passed by tho Upper House. Members of tho board would probably want to know why tho information was sought. Was it intended by the Government to build a homo in which to maintain tlioir old-ago pensioners? Ho considered tho matter- should bo roferrrid to a committee to report, and suggested whim the reply was sent to tho. deputy-registrar bo should bo asked his reason for wanting to know.—Tho motion was amended as Mr Garland suggested, and carried.