THE RELIEF OF DISTRESS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21360, 13 June 1931, Page 12

THE RELIEF OF DISTRESS

ro THE RDTTOR Sir—lt has been notified by the Government in this morning’s paper that there is no more money at the disposal or the Unemployment Board, and also that each town and district must care tor ue own distress temporarily, at least. it does not say how this must be done. Une thing is obvious, and that is that money is necessary. Appeals through the press touch only one set of people, and they are the people who are giving all the time. This is a time when all must give. 1 wish to give, but am not feeling very inclined when I see someone else sitting tight in his avidity, I would suggest, therefore, that an emergency rate be levied, which would have nothing to do with the ordinary rates. This could be done in. one levy or in smaller monthly rates, It may, in some cases, strike hard on some, but even that could be got over. The heavily-rated boarding-house keeping would easily secure this rate by small donations from the boarders who do not pay rates. The overrated hotelkeeper could pass this rate to the landlord who levies an exorbitant rent, or a penny from each customer would settle the matter fairly quickly. Others who would be undulv hit could always have the rate re duced' to nnv extent. _ This rate would make everyone subscribe equitably and would stop people from waiting for the other to give first. —T am. etc.. Willing. Dunedin, June 12.