DECISION DEFERRED

Stratford Evening Post, Volume I, Issue 79, 12 March 1931, Page 4

DECISION DEFERRED

CAMP FOR REFUGEES MEETING OF RELIEF * COMMITTEE A meeting of the Stratford Relief Committee last night decided to defer decision on the matter of establishing a camp for the refugees. The secretary, Mr. P. Skoglund, stated that only 63 people would be left in Stratford by Friday. On the extreme basis of having to recompense hosts to the extent of 15s a week for adults and 10s for children, this would cost the committee £43 10s a week, actually less than the estimated cost of a camp. There was a good attendance of members of the committee at the meeting, and the Mayor, Mr. P, Thomson, presided. On behalf of the sub-committee the chairman reported that the A. and P. Association was willing to grant the use of the Showgrounds, provided arrangements could be made with the tenant. The tenant, subsequently interviewed, had agreed to waive his right in consideration of a small weekly payment. The sub-committee also inspected the facilities available and reported upon requirements necessay to make a comfortable and convenient camp in the luncheon room. Ihe Taranaki Power Board had offered to supply free current and two ranges. . , After discussion of the whole circumstances members were of the opinion that, provided hosts were willing, the billeting arrangements were best. The motion to institute inquiries and to defer the establishment of the camp was adopted. With the object of seeking to arrange monetary assistance from men employed in the devastated area to their dependents, the committee at their request has been supplied with a list of all people billeted or receiving assistance in Stratford.