From the News

Dated:

MAPLE LEAF CLUBS IN LONDON CLOSE TO-DAY

Served One Billion Meals Below Cost Price to Canadian Soldiers.

Special Cable to The Star by Windermere, Copyright.

London, Aug. 15--The Maple Leaf Clubs here close to-day.  They were established under Lady Drummond's Presidency to provide meals and beds for Canadian soldiers on leave in London and during their operations served over 1,000,000,000 at less than cost price.  At the height of their activity last December they provided 1,200 beds nightly.  The cost has been approximately $40,000 raised by voluntary subscription and supplemented by donations from the Ontario Government.  The clubs gained the confidence of Canadian soldiers and cared for a total 2,500,000 pounds sterling in temporary deposits.  A complete official report of these activities will be issued shortly.

Disestablishment of the Canadian forces is proceeding rapidly.  Repatriation sailings for the half month to August 15, will reach approximately 8,500, all ranks, and 5,500 women and children.  Reduction of administrative staffs allow immediate release of twelve buildings in the London area alone, and the sale of stores continues to bring good prices.

The overseas Ministry transfers to headquarters at Argyll House this week, and the next few weeks will complete centralization of the Canadian military organizations in the building with exception of the pay office.  Negotiations are proceeding for the disposal of Orpington Hospital, but Ontario officials are experiencing some difficulty in effecting the sale, owing to its size, representing capital expenditure of about $1,250,000.

WINDERMERE