SHIFTING CAMP.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume II, Issue 594, 5 January 1916, Page 3

SHIFTING CAMP.

NEW ZEALANDERS IN ENGLAND. SIR T. MACKENZIE ENERGETIC. By Cable. — Pres<> Association. — Copyright. LONDON, January 3. Sir Thomas Mackenzie's arrangement having been completed, the New Zealanders were moved to-day from Weymouth to a special camp. There has been overcrowding at Weymouth owing to the lack of transport. The New Zealanders tended to lose their individuality, all the members being classed as Australians. The new camp is within 13 miles of London, thus enabling Sir Thomas Mackenzie to give close supervision to the men's comfort. An extension of the New Zealand hospital containing 200 extra beds was opened to-day. Sir Thomas Mackenzie has completed the reorganisation of the department for forwarding postal par-

eels, which was in a chaotic state, owing to disorganisation in Egypt. Two hundred bags of parcels were sometimes received in one day. Prior to the arrangement for the removal of the New Zealanders from Weymouth camp, rumours were being freely circulated regarding its deplorable condition. It was said to be in an insanitary slate. A'representative of the Australian Press Association thoroughly investigated the rumours, and found the allegations to be malicious inventions. The camp is situated on rising ground, and is admirably drained, ventilated, and warmed. Al the outset the lightly-constructed roofs failed to keep out the rain, and a large section of the 3000 troops quartered there suffered a good deal of discomfort until the authorities remedied this defect. The sanitary arrangements were found to be excellent. A fine gymnasium and recreation room have been provided. A second camp, some distance away, was reserved for 400 maimed and otherwise incapacitated Australians and New Zealanders who are awaiting transport home. The men are cheerful, notwithstanding that many must have anxietiesregarding their future. The officers in charge at Weymouth praised the splendid behaviour of the men, whose health was generally excellent.