RECRUITING

Hokitika Guardian, 10 January 1917, Page 4

RECRUITING

[per press association. —copyright.] KAITAIA, January 6th. At a meeting of tho executive of the Kaitai Chamber of Commerce last evening, the president. Colonel Allen Bell, moved the following resolution:— “That this Chamber, realising that national service for the whole of the nation is the only solution of the present world crisis, strongly urges the Government to adopt national service in New Zealand.” Colonel Bell, in a powerful appeal, expressed the opinion that the efforts of the whole nation should be directed into channels which would assist in the prosecution of the war, and that the farms and businesses of those young men called upon to serve should be worked by those remaining behind. Tho executive decided to fully consider the matter at an early meeting. Men Shortage. DUNEDIN, Jan. 9 Hon. J. Allen, interviewed, said that there was almost certain to he a moderate shortage as the result of the first ballot’s estimates after the first two ballots. There were 74,000 men in the First Division. Allowing 67 per cent, for for the elimination of unfits and essential workers, it l is reckoned that tho number will suffice for seven months’ supply. Two additional medical hoards have been appointed in Auckland and Nelson, and wherever nocessary this policy will ho extended. Regarding the question of medical examination preceding appeals, ho said that the subject was one open for discussion, and the matter would ho given careful consideration. It was intended meanwhile that the staff clerical work in tho camps,- base records, pay branches, etc., be deemed home service in order to release men for active service. Regarding national organisation, the Minister said that ho had prepared a comprehensive scheme, which would be submitted to Cabinet as soon as practicable.