AUSTRALIAN MAN POWER

Evening Star, Issue 24289, 2 September 1942, Page 5

AUSTRALIAN MAN POWER

DRASTIC STEPS BY GOVERNMENT SYDNEY, September 1. The War Cabinet has decided on more drastic stops to obtain another 219,(XX) men and women for war and civil needs before the end of tlfo year, says the ‘ Daily Telegraph.’ The latest review indicates that the Government’s estimate in May that it would require 318.000 more men and women for war work must be increased by another 00,000. About half the original estimate of 318,000 has been obtained. The official view is that unless reorganisation in civil industries is carried, out with the greatest energy and determination there will be a serious deficiency in man power at the end of the year. A sub-committee of the War Cabinet presented a report which states: “To meet the estimated requirements of 139.000 men and 80,000 women it will be necessary to take a series of measures which in scope and severity will transcend anything previously contemplated. In particular, - the reorganisation of industries will have to be carried through with a ruthlessness and speed which might involve individual inequities and might arouse considerable opposition ” The full Cabinet of the War Council will consider the report without delay. No indication has been given that the Government intends to conscript women for war work, hut this is believed to bo a possibility. Many of the women offering for war work are reported to be unwilling to accept what they are offered, but try to pick the best-paid positions. It is also reported that because of the man power position no more age groups will be called up for the army except in an emergency.