MIGRANTS COMPLAIN OF BAD ACCOMMODATION.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18014, 26 November 1926, Page 8

MIGRANTS COMPLAIN OF BAD ACCOMMODATION.

ARAWA WAS « CRAMPED, SMELLY AND CROWDED.” Per Press Association. AUCKLAND, November 25. A chorus of complaints was made by _ some of the batch of immigrants which arrived by the steamer Arawa. this morning from Liverpool, and the opinion was expressed in pointed terms that the arrangements made for the carrying of the immigrant portion of the passengers left much to be desired. One of the new arrivals said that the part of the ship where they were located was cramped, smelly and overcrowded, and that the arrangements for washing and sanitation were inadequate. Among the passengers was an Australian, who said that much better provision was made by the Commonwealth Government line of steamers for the conveyance of immigrants, and he considered it was the duty of the New Zealand Government to see that some improvement was effected. The “Star” says: “From a look round the Arawa this morning one gathered that the stern end of the ship below decks could scarcely be described as a floating palace, the internal arrangements certainly being on very plain and homely lines. In a comparatively small space cabins were formed by partitions that did not reach quite to the roof, and six bunks were arranged round the sides in approved ‘above and below* sea fashion. Immigrants complained that the bunks were narrow and uncomfortable, but it was on the score of congestion that they had the most unfavourable comment to make. One of the new arrivals had evidently taken a humorous view of the matter, but he added that it was a bit disquieting when out of five room mates four snored loudly in various keys, while the other had a habit of whistling in his sleep.” In regard to the food supply oil board the passengers considered it was good in quality, despite the fact that the menu was monotonous, but ths cooking was not highly praised. On the other hand the immigrants speak in glowing terms of the work of the officers and stewards, and say one and all did their best to maks the voyage pleasant.