IMPERIAL GUARD.

Taihape Daily Times, 16 May 1919, Page 5

IMPERIAL GUARD.

OPPOSITION TO SCHEME,

IN ANZAC MILITARY CIRCLES

LONDON, May 14. Australian and New Zealand military opinions are generally adverse to tbe formation of an Imperial Guard. They dissent from the men who fought at Gallipoli, Pozieres, and Passchendale becoming mere ornamental soldiers, and consider that the Dominions-' part in the Imperial battles had been commemorated in a far more practical manner. Mr. G_ H. Pearce, Minister for Defence, General Sir John Monash, and other leading Australians, decline to make statements, considering the matiter one of policy on which the Government must decide if the scheme bo officially adopted. It is understood that the War Office Jta nd Colonial Office favour the formation of the Imperial Guards. The War Cabinet will consider the proposal after the Dominion Premiers have been consulted. Discussions are proceeding in official circles regarding the desirability of establishing an Imperial Guard. Inquiries among Canadian and Australian soldiers indicate that many will be willing to join provided that the period of service is short. It is generally agreed that the scheme presents difficulties in organisation. Sir Thomas Mackenzie, High Commissioner for New Zealand, agreed on the good effect of the formation of a unit from the Imperial viewpoint, but said it might 'not be approved by New Zealand which the military spirit except for defensive purposes # Possibly the Dominion would not welcome a proposal to send its sons 12,000 tfiiles for a prolonged period of service.