RIFLE CLUBS.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXII, Issue 79, 29 March 1912, Page 7

RIFLE CLUBS.

IN RELATION TO DEFENCE. (For i’ress Association.! Wellington, March 28. In a meniorandnni just issued Colonel Robin, Adjutant-General, states that judging by the results of medical examination of recruits last year, it is expected that about 5 per cent, will be found totally unlit, about 60 per cent, will be posted to the Territorial force, and 35 per cent, to rifle clubs. Regarding the new rifle clubs’ scheme, Colonel Robin states that, making use of rifle clubs is to avoid multiplication of divisions or forces, and to place the defence forces of New Zealand in two categories in their relation to training and the defence of the Dominion—the first line being the Territorial forces and territorial reserve, and the second line the ride dubs and training sections affiliated to rifle clubs. It must be borne in mind that very shortly ail young men posted from rule clubs will have to undergo drill and training between the ages of 14 and 18 in' senior cadets. I no drill in rifle clubs will thus bo of a ‘•refresher” character, the only ehd in view btpng-that all will be drilled and practised in musketry to a state of individual efficiency to be drafted into tiie active ranks of the force to fill vacancies or augment, same. Should the necessity arise ride clubs will be given a place and function in the defence schemes, and their movements in time of necessity provided for ;n mobilisation. The instruction of Dominion clubs already existing will continue, 'and be governed by the rules and regulations already in l existence. Where no chibs exist the men available will be posted and given rifle club designation. Only those young men who by 31st May next have reached the age of 18 and are not required for the Territorial forces will be posted to rifle clubs this and each succeeding year. The system is in no. way rcstrospective. Regulations governing rifle ' clubs are published.