REMARK RESENTED

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 2, Issue 234, 6 November 1940, Page 5

REMARK RESENTED

MINISTER EXPRESSES REGRET ONLY GENERAL TERM INTENDED There was only one unfortunate incident at the meeting addressed by the Minister of National Service, Hon. R. Scrapie, last evening and this occurred when the speaker was referring to the number of Fifth Columnists in the country who were only too willing to sell out to the enemy. He was mentioning the work undertaken by the Government to create effective fighting forces and equipment, and said that this was not lor general broadcasting. At this point a member of the audience rose to his feet and sauntered out of the hall. The Minister's rejoinder in following up the theme of his subject was: 'There he goes, he's jjrobably going out to ring up Hitler right away!' The remark was deeply resented by a section of those present. Clries were raised at once —'That's unfair! 'He's a good man.' 'He fought in the last war.' and 'Apologise.' Mr Semplc said it had not been his intention to hurt anyone. He was only applying the remark as a joke and was sorry if he had hurt any felings. Later in thei evening when the same man returned, another who was seated near him rose and demanded an apology. The Minister again reiterated his explanation and expressed regret.