NATIONAL UNITY

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20053, 27 September 1939, Page 3

NATIONAL UNITY

THE FIRST 20 DAYS WAR RESPONSIBILITY STOPPING WORLD BONDAGE -The first 20 days after the most flagrant Nazi invasion of European liberties have been memorable for New Zealand,” said the Director of Publicity, Mr. J. T. Paul, in Wellington. “They have been fruitful in successive steps to protect the interests and preserve the security of our people ancl British civilisation.

“Every step taken by the Government has been measured and designed to extend the national, effort. ’ said Mr. Paul. “The courageous lead given has been applauded, and is now being supported by every section of the community; that means national unity, and unity is strength. In Parliament the Leader and members of the Opposition have co-operated fully with the Government in connection with the war effort, and they have been consulted on. all the important steps taken-. The New Zealand Labour Party and the Federation of Labour have each declared their intention ot standing solidly with the Government in this international crisis.

"Employers and manufacturers have spoken with one voice and have promised to assist toward the fullest expression of this nation’s power. Farmers and producers in all spheres of activity have affirmed their intention of seconding the lead given by the Government. As with organisations, so with individual citizens, and this small nation, as one of the British Commonwealth, stands solidly in line with its bigger sisters.

Country’s Maximum Effort

“Twenty days have accomplished all this and New Zealand, having declared war, proceeds to put forward her maximum effort in aid of ideals which alone can save the world from mental bondage. We are all partners in tins great adventure, the success of which means the rule of right instead of might and the reign of law in place of Nazi anarchy.

"There is at this time one warning to be issued; men in the zeal to help stem the tide of Nazi aggression are inclined to underestimate the importance of their present work in the community. The response to the nation’s call for a special force for service in New Zealand or overseas lias been magnificent, but all men should remain at their civil posts till the call comes. They also serve who carry

“The Government will direct the collective power of New Zealand in this war effort, and the achievement of the first 20 days is an earnest of all the future days or years necessary to assist in the destruction of a domination now regarded as a world menace.

“Hiller’has posed as a man of peace, but his ideal of peace is death for all who dare oppose his will inside and outside of Germany. The British and French democracies are fighting to preserve the human rights of all peoples who love freedom. Tolerance is the only real test of civilisation- — who lives if democracy, liberty, and justice give way to Nazi rule?”