“SAD DISASTER”

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 1050, 14 August 1930, Page 10

“SAD DISASTER”

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ON DEFENCE CHANGE OBJECTION TO BE MADE The Chamber of Commerce Council agreed unanimously this morning to forward a strong objection to the action of the Government in enforcing economies in the defence system before having a full consideration of the measures by the House of Representatives. 11/TR. A. G. LUNN characterised the defence restrictions as a ‘sad disaster.” The Government had been unwise in bringing the restrictions into effect Without having a full consideration of the alterations by Parliament. New Zealand, Mr. Lunn added, had been left with a very inefficient method of defence. “What about the economy aspect?” asked the president, Mr. Malcolm Stewart. Mr. Lunn: I have considered that, but I think it is essential to have a sufficient system of defence. Mr. L. A. Eady instanced the value of compulsory training in raising the standard of manhood of the trainees. Habits of obedience were inculcated, he said. TliS secretary, Dr. E. P. Neale, said the Government's intention was to save £275,000 of the £500,000 spent annually under the compulsory system. "PALTRY SAVING” “A paltry saving,” pronounced Mr. Lunn. Mr, Stewart: I think the restrictions are good, as they are only temporary. Mr. Lunn: If compulsion goes out. it will not come back. The United Party simply pandered to the ideals of the Labour Party. Other members criticised the action of the Government in carrying out the restri&tions without having complete opinions from Parliament. Mr. Lunn thought that, should compulsion be discarded permanently, a less costly substitute should be provided.