Mr. Fraser And Conscription

Dominion, Volume 33, Issue 190, 8 May 1940, Page 11

Mr. Fraser And Conscription

Sir,—Speaking at Auckland last night nt the opening of Mr. I’. Carr's campaign for the vacant Auckland A) est seat. Air. Fraser, ae reported in todays “Dominion,” said: “I said on previous occasions that if our shores were invaded, or if there was threat of invasion, every man and woman and every penny of money would be at the disposal of Hie Stale.” The only interpretation of the above is that Air. Fraser would wait, even if voluntary enlistment failed, till our shores were threatened or actually invaded, before he brought in conscription. Surely Air. Eraser will admit that an invasion, or even a threat of such (whether from Germany or elsewhere) would mean that Hie Allies were completely beaten, or so crippled Hint they could no further defend this outpost of Empire? In a word, we would be in a hopeless position. Air. Fraser would then, without an instant's hesitation, bring in conscription —■ I am, etc., AMAZED. Wellington, Alay 7. Sir,—In today’s issue of your paper, the Prime Alinister, spetiking at Auckland yesterday, is reported to have slated: — “The issue of conscription lias been mentioned tonight, and 1 do not want to treat it lightly. I said on previous occasions that, if our shores were invaded or if there was threat of invasion, every man and woman and every penny of . money would be at the disposal of . the State. The Labour Party and the Government have stood for the voluntary system, which, up to the present time, has been a great, success.” A voice: But it is not fair. Air. Fraser: The Government adheres to the voluntary system. The Prime Minister makes it quite clear that the Government still adheres to tlie voluntary system, which, he states, is a great success. How can this be when they are still urging men to enlist and, further, why are rejected men being called up again for reexamination? Does this point to the “great success” to which he refers? Further, he states that if our shores are invaded, or if there is any threat of invasion, every man and woman would be at the disposal of the Govi ernment. How does this tally with conscription? There is not the slightest doubt about the great help women would willingly give, but what right-thinking man would not wish to be trained than see women so treated? His remark-, about the women clearly indicates what we would be up against if attacked, so why does not Hie Govern-' ment face the position? In any case, what could our very small number of trained men scattered throughout New Zealand do against n highly trained attacking force? The untrained man would be practically useless if not called up till the enemy was at outdoor, and this is what the Prime Alinister calmly states would be done! It would be interesting to know what supplies of guns, ammunition, stores, etc., we have in the Dominion, ami how long they would last in Hie event of an attack. The old-fashioned Alaori was a most gallant lighter, and on more than one occasion when lie found the foe was running short of ammunition lie sent: some further supplies and also gave, safe escort to women and children so that the fight: could be continued on a fair basis.

Can the Primo Minister imagine our ruthless enemies doing anything like this or standing off till we could make preparations to give them a warm welcome when he knows full well our foes’ habit of sweeping down overnight on weak countries. Surely after his recent visit to England and Erance the Prime Minister must know that this is the time for action, —I am. etc., R. Wellington, May 7.