EFFICIENCY BOARD

Otago Daily Times, Issue 17089, 22 August 1917, Page 8

EFFICIENCY BOARD

RESIGNATIONS WITHHELD.

CABINET TO CONSIDER POSITION.

(From Oun Own Correspondent.)

_ ■ ;• WELLINGTON, August 21. _ Tho Prime 'Minister found it necessary m the House to-day to mako a statement regarding the position of tho Efficiency Board.

ii. 4 rofcrred tn o Primo Minister to tho published statemont by ono of tho MTiciency. Commissioners (Mr Frostiok) that the resignation of the board was in the Prime Minister's hands, and that tho next move should como from the Government. Mr Isitt asked whether in view of the denial by tile Prime Minister that tho board had rosignod, the Prime Minister would toll the House what the position was, and whether he could hold out to the House any re-assuranco that the services of tho commissioners might be saved for the oountry.

Tho Prime Minister said he had not seen the artiole in question, but this would not prevent him from explaining the position. "It i s stated rn tho articlo, I think," said Mr Massey, "that the resignation of tho commissioners is in my hands. That is not tho case. Tho resignation of tho board is in the hands of the Defence Minister, but there is an understanding between Sir Jas. Allen and the members of the board that he will hold it over until the Cabinet has had an opportunity of considering the position as between the Government and the board. A few days ago I had a very long interview with members of the Efficiency Board, and I did my level best to induce them to re-consider tho position, but, I am afraid, without very much The resignation of the board is being held 6ver until the Cabinet has had an opportunity of considering the matter. When the Government has had this opportunity the decision of the Cabinet will be communicated to tfho board, and then the final decision will rest with members of the board. RETENTION OF BOARD'S SERVICES* URGED. (Per United Peess Association.) PALMERSTON N., August 21. At to-day's meeting of the Manawatu A. and P. Association it was decided—" That tho committee views with regTet - the reported resignation of the National Efficiency Board, and urges the Government to give full consideration to the recommendations of the board, and retain its services." Tho Borough Council passed a resolution urging tho Government to take steos to give effect to tho board's findings and To continuo tho board in its pxcsenV status.