AUSTRALIA.

Colonist, Volume LVII, Issue 13728, 17 March 1915, Page 6

AUSTRALIA.

BELGIAN RELIEF FUND

NEW .SOUTH WAI.ES CONTRIBU-

TIONS,

MEAT FOR IMPERIAL PURPOSES

SycJney, March 16

Mr Holman has cabled to Sir T. A. Coghlan, Agent-General, a further £40,000 as the eighth instalment to the Belgian Relief Fund contributed liy New South Wales.

The Auckland and Christchurch Chambers of Commerce cabled the London Chamber as to whether, in vie>w of the Belgian Commission's appeal, it was advisable to concentrate their fund on Belgium. London replied that the requirements were still urgent. It was de-sirable that foodstuffs and funds should continue to benefit wounded soldiors, refugees, and the distressed poor. They should not concentrate on Belgium.

The fund exceeds £100,000, and all but £3500 has already been allocated for the purchase of supplies.

During the nest fortnight, 109,000 carcases of mutton will be forwarded to the Imperial Government. ft is anticipated that the whole conjsignmenfc will be sent direct to France.

The increased demand for mutton is unofficially explained by the fact thai the French Army rations, which hitherto included meat once a week, rhftye been extended. Since they hare been fighting alongside the British, our Allies acquired a desire lor more meat. Bvery endeavour is being made in forwarding supplies at the earliest moment.