HAIG AND GOUGH.

Taihape Daily Times, 20 May 1918, Page 6

HAIG AND GOUGH.

In connection with the recent criticism in English papers of the British High Command, the London orresponident of the Sydney Sun, writing on the 22nd February, said: "There is at least one high commander in France of whom we have already, indirectly, given a frank opinion. I am convinced that it was necessary. The general is General Gough. The Australian division fought several times in his army in the Somme country. They have no great love for his methods. General Gough is the only British general I have beard the Australian soldier criticise and his criticism has been free. I notice that the German view is that Sir Douglas Haig will be caled on to retire from his command, because, quite apart from other considerations, of the Allies' plan of severe economy, which the Haig school cannot, and will not reconcile with their ideas of Western strategy. That view, I am confident, is incorrect. Haig wil shake off all attacks, and remain, at least for some time, as British Commander-in-Chief. The policy will be to surround him with new, fresh, able young men; but the great gifts of Sir Douglas Haig are recognised. He ha's some of the soldier's most necessary qualities highly developed—strength, decision, Clearness of mind, rigidity of character, sternnes His character is indeed outstandingly that of a soldier —so much so that it approaches genius."