COMPULSORY E.P.S. SERVICE

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 5, Issue 4, 16 January 1942, Page 4

COMPULSORY E.P.S. SERVICE

THE statement by the Minister of National Service, Hon. R. Semple, to the effect that service in the Emergency Precautions Scheme, would in the near future be made compulsory, throws some light on the possible intentions of the Government relative to the whole of the mobilisation plan which is now under consideration. If the personnel of the E.P.S. is to be instituted by compulsory means, it stands to reason that the sister organisation, the Home Guard, which is based upon citizen membership, must also come under the same rule. Such a move would be welcome, for both groups, vital though they are to the country in the event of emergency, have been sadly lacking in interest, owing to the lack of vigorous administration, and the disappointment which rebuffed the first enthusiastic rush to join. Now it appears that the authorities are getting to grips with the question all right-minded persons will agree that it is high time: compulsory service was imposed—in spite of how much the Minister loathes the term. It would have suited the majority of New Zealanders if the Minister had overcome his feelings in this regard twelve months ago, and given the man-power of this country something upon which to. build reliance as a garrison army, trained* ready and fit to meet any attempt at raid or, invasion. To-day, compulsion appears to be the only satisfactory means of building up to the utmost strength, any organisation which is dependent upon civilian volunteers to fill its ranks—Army, Home Guard or E.P.S. Complete reliance upon volunteers always leaves untouched the slackers, the leaners and the selfish individuals who never have and never will (unless compelled) give a hand in the public weal.