Benefits of Security

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19732, 10 September 1938, Page 20

Benefits of Security

Sir,—“Mother of Sons” has written her last letter in a very different tone to that of her first, in. which she made sarcastic remarks regarding Mr, Savage’s method of investing his incomes. She now wishes to know from

what source he will derive his income in future. It is absurd to ask this of anyone other than Mr. Savage himself. However, as he is likely to be our Prime Minister for some time, this matter should not cause her any loss of sleep. “M. 0.5.” is side-step-ping when she fails to see what Mr. Savage’s benefaction has to do with the subject under discussion. It was an answer to her query regarding his method of using his income. “M. 0.5.” is one of those who cannot see how the country is to pay for these benefits, 'but does she not realise that there is not going to be any more sickness, etc., in the future than there is at present, and it is being paid for now, but under the new system savings against contingencies will be compulsory.

Many National supporters have been endeavouring to show that by personal insurance investments and the use of lodges the worker could secure greater benefits at less cost than under the Government scheme. This is definitely not so, but the Nationalists assert that the worker will have to pay more; therefore, where is there room for argument about costs. One cannot have it both ways. Labour members have never spoken slightingly of soup kitchens, but of the men who were responsible for the conditions necessitating them. “M. 0.5.” says the amount of upkeep necessary for a boy could be reduced if he found work near home, and asks how many of our children can obtain work near home. It is difficult to say, but I would say fully 95 per cent in Gisborne.—Yours, etc., LABOUR.