CORRESPONDENCE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 1552, 18 May 1916, Page 3

CORRESPONDENCE.

Sir. —Appearances trend towards conscription of men. Voluntaryism hits been our pride for generations, but under our coalition Government there appears a tendency to sacrifice our traditions rather than give it fair (rial. Should not those who enlist be as well treated as the “man who stays at home” ! Some people say he should. Two men of equal abilities are each gaining £4 per week, the patriot responds to his country’s cull, he accepts of 35s per week and found, equal to, say, £3 per week, thus making a direct sacrifice of 25 per cent, of his income. Should not the man who stays at home make equal sacrifice ? Thy latter reaps an immediate benefit, and is banking his £1 per week. In time if our hei’o is not, killed, he returns with his constitution undermined. He is not wounded, and might get some consideration from the Pensions Board if he "knows his way about.” The other has saved his money, conserved his health, and is prepared to face life while the hero has to look for congenial occupation or be assisted to the back blocks. Where does equal treatment, come in ! The slogan has been raised for “men, more men, and still more men.” What is wanted is a “man, more man, and still more man” ! They are to be found in the House, if honourable members will place the right men in the right positions. Where is the man who initiated the compulsory military training scheme ? Where is the man who gave a Dreadnought and saved the Empire ! They have partially lost their identity in a coalition Ministrv. According to some Australian opinions, the “brains ol the Seddon Government are still in the House, but are not being used to the best advantage." The different portfolios arc not filled by the most suitable men. There is a subdued feeling pervading the Dominion. At patriotic meetings the leaders appear afraid lest they should say something Unit might embarrass llte Government or retard recruiting. It might he better if they'spoke out and get wrongs righted, and thus induce (he Government to make it known that suitable and honourable provision will he made for all who risk their lives and most unpatriotic and selfish to say that the'counlry could not stand the strain, when we remember that the increased war profits are greater than our total military expenses. Let the manhood of New Zealand realise that Justice will he done and that provision will he made- for them out of the £500,()()(»,000 worth they have fought for and saved, then there will he no need for conscription. —I am, etc., " EDMUND OSBORNE. Palmerston N., May 171 h, I filth

(To the Editor.)