VOLUNTEER BADGES.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 250, 19 September 1940, Page 10

VOLUNTEER BADGES.

NO MORE TO BE ISSUED. Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, Sept. 19. In view of the fact that volunteering for service in the Armed Forces, expect to meet the limited requirements of the Navy and Air Force, ceased on July 22, stated Hon. I. Jones to-day, the issue of the special volunteer badges will no longer be continued. “It will be understood, of course, that all those volunteering until July 22 to whom badges have been or have vet to be issued, are fully entitled to wear them. It should be fully realised also that to-day all eligible men are liable for selection by ballot as the time comes for their group to be called up. ' “It will be apparent, therefore, even to those foolish people who have adopted the'practice of distributing white feathers, that under the ballot there can be no slackers. From now on a badge as evidence of willingness to serve 'is unnecessary. “However, there is another class of men whom the Government desire to give the well-earned, distinguishing badge—the soldier, sailor and airman disabled as a result of enemy action. We have been advised that the King has approved the issue in Britain of a special badge bearing the cypher of the Sovereign and of a pattern easily distinguishable from that issued in the last war to men invalided from the Armed Forces, the Merchant Marine, and the fishing fleets. It is proposed that a badge be issued under similar circumstances in New Zealand, and the necessary steps are being taken to secure His Majesty’s assent to this proposal. “The badge will, I am sure, meet the position adequately,” declared Mr Jones.