EMIGRATION PERMITS.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume II, Issue 561, 26 November 1915, Page 9

EMIGRATION PERMITS.

NEW ARRANGEMENTS MADE. Press Association WELLINGTON, November 25. The Minister of Internal Affairs today, explained the arrangements that are being made in connection with the regulation governing the issue of travellers' permits. Officers are to be appointed in various centres to deal with the applications of men who wish to leave New Zealand, and it has been decided that the permits issued must bear a photograph of the applicant in order that there may be no mistake in regard to identity. "The strain upon the Department of Internal Affairs has been very much greater than was ever contemplated when the regulation was issued," said the Minister. "Although only 10 days have elapsed since the regulation was approved by the Executive, more than 500 applications for permits have ben dealt with by the Department. An officer will proceed to Auckland at once to deal with the applications of men who wish to leave by the San Francisco boat next week. It has been decided that every application for a permit must be supported by a photograph of the person applying as in the case of an ordinary passport. The photograph will be attached to the permit, if one is issued, so that the person concerned may be identified and any imposition may be prevented. With a view to making the scheme thoroughly effective officers will be appointed not only at the main ports, but also at points like Kaipara, Greymouth, Bluff, Invercargill, Oamaru, Timaru, Nelson, Westport, Hokitika, Gisborne, Napier, Wanganui, and New Plymouth." \ Referring to the general operation , of the system, the Minister said that in practically every case where men i of military age applying for permits could not show satisfactory reasons for their departure from New Zealand permits were refused. It was ' noticeable that some of the men who had secured forms did not re- , turn them. Apparently they abandoned their intention of leaving the country when they discovered what , questions they would have to answer -i before they obtained permits.