MINISTER LOOKS FOR LASTING BENEFITS TO EX-SERVICE MEN.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18887, 11 October 1929, Page 13

MINISTER LOOKS FOR LASTING BENEFITS TO EX-SERVICE MEN.

PENSIONS COMMISSION TO DISCUSS PROBLEM. (Special to the "Star/') WELLINGTON, October 10. It is anticipated by the Alinister of Defence, the Hon T. M. Wilford, that the Economic Pensions Commission to be set iip in a few days will deal helpfully with the classification of ex-ser-vicemen who are in difficult circumstances as a result of their war experiences. The order of reference is to be announced in a few days. Air Wilford stated in an interview to-night that the commission would travel the country taking evidence in the four centres. Returned Soldiers’ Associations would collect and prepare this evidence. The Minister said that the commission would inquire into the position of South African and Alaori War veterans. It cost between £BO,OOO to £90,000 annually by way of economic pensions, and while the Government did not complain at having to find this money it felt that if the men receiving economic pensions could be found employment appropriate to their physical condition the men would be happier, more hopeful and given an entirely changed outlook on life. The commission will investigate cases not only of partially disabled men, but of those who though neither partially nor totally disabled are, as a result of war service, unable to maintain themselves. This will, of course, mean classification, and the Minister expects to receive from the commission detailed reasons for such classification. Whether or not, after the commission has reported, legislation will be required is a matter for consideration by the Government. The Alinister added that the interests concerned were entering whole-hearted ly into this very necessary inquiry, and he looks forward to lasting benefits to ex-service men and the country. "As I have pointed out previously," the Alinister added, "■ while the Commission in devising means of finding suitable employment for the partially disabled ex-servicemen may relieve the Government of a certain annual expenditure the result of the recommendations of the Commission may or may not mean any saving to New Zea land.”