LAND FOR SOLDIERS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 11595, 13 January 1916, Page 1

LAND FOR SOLDIERS.

POST WAR PROBLEM. SIR RIDER HAGGARD'S MISSION

By Telegraph—Press (Received January 13, 10.45 a.m.). LONDON, January 12. Sir Rider Haggard gave a representative of the Australian Press. Association an.outline of his programme. He will leave in a few weeks, first visiting South, Africa, then all the capitals of Australia .and New Zealand. He will sea as much of the country as possible and ascertain the openings fro soldiers and ex-service men . after the war, either as regards scttknvent or employment; One result of the employment of women workers would be a great exodus' of men. These should be kept within the Empire and not allowed to go to America or the Argentine. There had been gref.t fraternisation of Britons and Australasians since the outbreak of the war, and the attractions of the colonies have been advertised. Many wounded, who would be unable to stand the English climate, would appreciate orchards and furms in' Australia and dairying in New Zealand." "My visit to Australia," said Sir Rider Haggard, "convinced me of support. 1 consider the work of set-

tling emigrants so important that I have volunteered to carry the task outhi art honorary capacity, a> agricultural settlement has" been a ltr'o study with me. Si I go without cut and dried plans, and will discuss the possibilities with the "overseas' Governments with open mind. I will see what associations and individuals are willing to help, and will invite suggestions and advice from all willing to help. I will try to solve a scheme which will-possibly provide assisted fares, help ill finance, purchase land, and give guidance thereafter. My present opinion is that- men, women,

children and widows might be included. After my investigations I will submit a report with recommendations to the Colonial Institute. I am undertaking the task as a public duty, hoping the result will be'for tbc good of the Empire." ; ; ' • !