N.Z. DEFENCE FORCE

Hokitika Guardian, 24 June 1931, Page 6

N.Z. DEFENCE FORCE

RECRUITING ABOUT TO START. (By Telegraph—Per Press Association) WELLINGTON, June 23. The Minister, of Defence advises that since the decision of the Government to envbody the Territorial Force on a voluntary basis and commence military training, the Defence Department has been occupied in making' the necessary preparations' for tiie inauguration of the new scheme. in order to make known the provisions of the scheme to all concerned, and enlist the aid and goodwill oi the public, the General Officer Commanding, accompanied by the Under secretary of Defence, and an officer of the General Staff, have just concluded a tour embracing the chief centres. The G.O.C. has reported to the Minister that very remarkable interest and enthusiasm was displayed at each place visited, auguring well for the success of the scheme.

Arrangements are so far forward, the Minister states that it is expected to commence recruiting in the course of the next few days. The Government hopes that employers generally will place no obstacle in, the way of allowing such of their employees as so desire to join up and attend the prescribed training courses and camps. The Government would encourage its employees to enlist and afford every reasonable, facility for them to carry out the obligations which enlistment in the force entailed.