AID FOR BRITAIN

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27039, 25 March 1949, Page 6

AID FOR BRITAIN

Sir,—A report of a meeting held by the Otago Aid for Britain Committee on Tuesday night, which appeared in yesetrday’s Daily Times, makes particular reference to the lack of a representative of the Red Cross Society, and infers that the Red Cross Society has declined to associate itself with the Otago Committee. We feel that our own society’s numerous activities necessitate our full-time interest. Your report further goes on to state that certain expenses concerning the sending of bulk food consignments to Britain by the Red Cross Society were met by the Otago Aid for Britain Committee. This statement is incorrect, and I wish to make it quite clear that the only expenses not shouldered by the Red Cross Society are local cartage, railage, insurance and documentation. These items are paid by the New Zealand Government. which for its own convenience routes these expenses through the local Aid for Britain Committee, which arranges settlement of charges as agents for the Government. The actual sea freight, which is a considerable item, Is paid by the Ministry of Food in London. We understand that any organisation in New Zealand forwarding food to Britain in bulk, through the Ministry of Food, is entitled to a refund of expenses in a similar manner. Our rooms have always been open as a depot for Food for Britain to any organisation wishing to have food packed and sent to England, and this privilege was also extended to the Aid for Britain Committee. —I am, etc., Charles V. Smith, President, Otago Centre. New Zealand Red Cross Society.