LIBERALISM AND DEFENCE

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 8353, 13 February 1913, Page 6

LIBERALISM AND DEFENCE

A persistent and impudent attempt is being made by the squatters’ organ to connect the Liberal party with whatever small element of anti-militar-ism may exist in New Zealand. This is really so contemptible that we would not refer to it except that tho continued misrepresentation may have tho effect of misleading a limited number of people. The attack is hung upon tha natural criticism aroused by the Hon. James Allen’s audacious and ill-advised offer to the Mother Country of an expeditionary force of New Zealanders available for military service in any part of tho Empire. The Minister of Defence made this offer in an official manner, yet without the slightest authorisation from the Parliament op the people. Hence it is very properly resented. Indeed, representatives of organised Labour cabled to Mr Keir Hardie, M.P., repudiating Mr Allen’s statement. In endorsing tho sending of that cable message the local centre of tho Labour party expressly and definitely asserted its adherence to the Defence Act, which provides for compulsory training for domestic defence. Yet the squatters’ organ shuts its eyes to the facts—to all tho obvious facts—trumps up an imaginary agitation against military training, and connects tho whole of Liberalism with this bogus movement, suggesting that the Liberal party is seeking to overthrow tha whole system. The answer to this latest evidence of mental bankruptcy on the part of the mouthpiece of self-styl-ed Reform is contained in a few words. The Liberal Government and party passed the Defence Act! It was the Liberal chief on whoso initiative this country gave tho battleship that all. the world is talking of to-day. It was Sir Joseph Ward who invited FieldMarshal Lord Kitchener hero to advise concerning our land defences. Sin Joseph Ward's Government submitted tho proposals for compulsory training to Parliament and placed tho Act on tho statute-book! What on earth will the squatters’ organ invent next?