ENEMY SUBJECTS

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2480, 5 June 1915, Page 4

ENEMY SUBJECTS

The public will welcomo the decision of the Government to have tho eases of all doubtful enemy subjects investigated by a special board. Since the disappearance of German warships from the outer seas tho power of ill-disposed aliens to do this country injury has greatly decreased, but the dishonourable tactics of the enemy and thoir disregard of all tie restraints of law and humanity have caused anxiety that no loophole should be left for treachery by Germans resident in New Zev land. At the same time wanton persecution of inoft'ending persons of German extraction is in the last degree repugnant to the temper of the community. No one desires to see a repetition of the recent disgraceful scenes in Wanganui, and sucS occurrences can best bo prevented by the knowledge that the doings of all aliens to whom the least suspicion attaches are under close and continuous observation. The case of Dn. Sandstein, of Christehurch, reported in this morning's telegrams, shows that the Government is thoroughly alert in the matter. It is not necessary to know Dr. Sandstein's exact status as to nationality or to question his loyalty and good faith to agree with the Government's decision that no change of namo can be officially recognised during the war. To permit persons of German or Austrian extraction to leave the Dominion for abroad with Anglicised names on their passports would be a most improper proceeding, carrying with it possibilities of the gravest danger. Tho whole matter of the treatment of persons of enemy nationality is ono in which more care is needed than can bo given by a Minister engrossed in a multiplicity of other ta-sks, and the new step taken should lead to tho removal of any existing anomalies and secure tho full and effective investigation of cases needing it. . .