The Waikato Independent FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5, 1945. SOME PRACTICAL HELP

Waikato Independent, Volume XLIV, Issue 1189, 5 October 1945, Page 2

The Waikato Independent FRIDAY, OCTOBER 5, 1945. SOME PRACTICAL HELP

It is Very evident from the many public statements to the opinions generally expressed by the man in the streets of this Dominion, that there is a universal desire for New Zealand to follow the lead of Canada and to make some tangible gesture of appreciation of Britain’s fine example to the Empire, if not to the world, throughout the War years. The Canadian Government, is will be recalled, donated £200,000,00 and a free-of-interest loan of £100,000,000. Recently a Wellington businessman suggested that New Zealand make a free gift to Britain of butter, cheese and meat valued at £20,000,000, the gift to be spread over two years. Just whether we could make such a generous contribution at the present moment, the Government would be in the best position to know, but the principle of making some tangible recognition of Britain’s sacrifices and efforts in the world struggle just ended, would be warmly supported by the rank and file of the people. Writing on this subject “The Dominion” states: “An opportunity for New Zealand to show its appreciation occurred recently when the Minister of Industries and Commerce outlined the progress of the settlement arising out of financial obligations incurred under the war-time agreement between Britain and this Dominion in connection with the linen flax industry. Instead of being niggardly over the payment which Britain will be required to make toward, the losses incurred in establishing the industry in New Zealand, the Government would have received full support from the public if it had suggested relieving the Mother Country of her obligations in this connection. An opportunity was lost of showing our appreciation of what Britain has done for us, of her sacrifices, and of her present difficulties. Many sections of the public have helped to dispatch to England goods or money for specific war purposes, and it would be fitting if, as a nation, we now made an unconditional donation to the people of Britain, as Canada has already so generously done.” HEALTH CAMPS AND STAMPS. The raising of funds to help in the administration 'of Health Camps for children in this Dominion is now an established practice. At the present time another year’s campaign is under way and here in this district we arc called upon to raise our quota.

Health camps—and there are several of them in the country now—are being increasingly recognised for the good they do among children whose physical condition is not up to standard. These camps, too, provide the facilities for many children to enjoy a much-needed holiday* Most of the people in this district are aware of the provision ol the Port Waikato camp and of the excellent results that have already been obtained there. We are all aware, too, of the splendid success of the Plunket system in this Dominion. In that dii'ection the care and advice given by the Plunket organisation has been backed up by the co-operation of the mothers of the country. The same co-operation must be given by the people generally to the Health Camp movement, for it has behind it an ideal, just as necessary, just as sound, as that behind the Plunket system. It is so easy, too, for everybody to show their sympathy and co-operation—-just by the purchase annually of a few Health Campaign Stamps. Your immediate co-operation will help Cambridge raise its quota this year and will ensure that some child’s health is being helped as the result of your small monetary contribution.