SOLDIERS’ CLUBS.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 29, Issue 43, 5 June 1917, Page 5

SOLDIERS’ CLUBS.

DISCOURAGED BY ME RUSSELL. WELLINGTON, May 30. When interviewed by a Reporter on another matter, the Hon. G. W. Russell made a reference to soldiers’ clubs. He said: “I should like to say that I think that a large portion of the expenditure which has been and is being devoted to the establishment of soldiers’ clubs might with great advantage be spent in more practical directions. While we all desire to see every comfort given to our soldiers, I think the expenditure of funds in a way which tends to isolate these men from other portions of the community is not desirable. What we all wish to see is that the men should as speedily as possible after their return become absorbed into the general population, and this is not likely to be done while there are special soldiers’ clubs. As regards soldiers’ hostels, while the war is on there can be no two opinions. The desirability of these institutions is evident, and probably after the war is over they may profitably be used for the housing of soldiers under a strict classification.”