LABOUR FOR WAR WORK

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 77, 1 September 1942, Page 2

LABOUR FOR WAR WORK

DRASTIC STEPS IN AUSTRALIA NO MORE AGE GROUPS FOR ARMY (Rec. 1.15 p.m.) Sydney, This Day. The War Cabinet has decided on more drastic steps to obtain another 219,000 men and women for war and civil needs before the end of the year, says the “Sydney Morning Telegraph.” The latest review indicates that the Government’s estimate in May that it would require 318,000 more men and women for war work must be increased by another 60,000. About half the original estimate of 318,000 has been obtained. The official view is that unless the reorganisation of civil industries is carried out with the greatest energy and determination there will be a serious deficiency in manpower at the end of the year. A sub-committee of the War Cabinet has presented a report in which it states: “To meet the estimated requirements of 139,000 men and 80,000 women it would be necessary to take a series of measures which in the scope of severity transcended anything previously contemplated. In particular the reorganisation of industries would have to be carried through with ruthlessness and speed which might involve individual inequities and might arouse considerable opposition.” A full Cabinet War Council will consider the report without delay. No indication has been given that the Government intends to conscript women for war work, but this is believed to be a possibility. Many women offering for war work are reported to be unwilling to accept what they are offered, but will try to pick the best paid positions. It was reported thy.t because of the manpower position no more age groups would be called up for the army except in an emergency. —PA.