LETTER TO HOSPITAL BOARD

Southland Times, Issue 24605, 29 November 1941, Page 5

LETTER TO HOSPITAL BOARD

Sir, —It has been stated that a petition was received by the Southland Hospital Board from .the Makarewa-Lorneville Citizens’ Association about the appointment of a resident medical superintendent. This is totally incorrect, and it is desirable that this misunderstanding be removed as many members of the association feel that they were not given the opportunity of seeing such a document. What happened was that a letter was forwarded to the board containing a resolution that was duly proposed., seconded and carried without one dissenting voice. JOHN WATT, Chairman, Makarewa-Lorneville Citizens’ Association. Makarewa, November 28.

Sir, —In reference to the various arguments which have appeared in your columns recently concerning Dr Weiser, I should like to give what I think is the general opinion of Makarewa citizens about alien doctors. While not condemning the doctors, I hold that it is not possible to find out, except from the highest Nazi officials, whether or not they are genuine refugees. If they are such, then they have my sympathy, but how is anyone to know, without definite information, their true stories. One point stressed by the Makarewa-Lorne-ville Citizens’ Association is that when the soldiers who are wounded return they may have to be tended by Germans. How would the average New Zealand citizen, on returning from a fierce and bloody battle with German forces, like to be tended by men who are quite possibly kinsmen of his recent enemies? In cases where definite proof can be supplied that the doctors are unfortunate, persecuted refugees from the Nazi terror, anything I have said may be considered as withdrawn. MAKAREWA CITIZEN. Makarewa, November 27. Sir, —I read with interest the letters criticizing the petition to the Hospital Board about Dr Weiser. I think writers would be mistaken to think that the majority of Makarewa citizens would support such an unchristian-like action. I am glad I was not at the meeting or associated with the petition, and I am sure there are others of the same mind. CANDID. Makarewa, November 27.