ENLISTMENT OF YOUTHS OF 19.

Taranaki Daily News, 23 August 1917, Page 2

ENLISTMENT OF YOUTHS OF 19.

MATTER DISCUSSED IN' PARLIAMENT. ' PREMIER IN A DEFIANT MOODj (By Wire.—Parliamentary Reporter.) Wellington, August 21.A debate that arose in the House this afternoon indicated that Ministers had not been quite frank in their statements regarding the proposal to enlist nine-teen-year-old boys. Mr. Massey had said that the matter had" not been considered by Cabinet. Sir James Allen, on the other hand, said that the Government had a, proposal under consideration, but had reached no definite conclusion. Mr. Webb drew attention to these contradictory statements, and asked for information. Mr. Massey said the statements were not really contradictory. The matter had been mentioned at a Cabinet meeting, but not officially co»sidcred. Soma members of the Cabinet had expreused their opinions as to what should be done with youths of nineteen years, Mr Witty: Was the Bill drafted? Mr, Massey: Not that I know off. Several members interjected and Mr. Massey retorted:- We have heard a good deal about leakages from the Government printing office, and I should" be glad to know where the honorable member got hi 3 information. Mr. Witty: Not from the printing office. Mr. Massey: I will take the responsibility for my own opinion on this question. There are many youths of nine-. teen in this country who are just as good as they ever will be, and they are anxious to go to the front. If a man of nineteen yc>rs is physically fit and 'his parents doNiot object to his going. I think there is no reason why he should. not go. Mr. Poland: They have gone* in mmdrods. Mr. Massey: Of course I know that I make this statement of my opinion If the country likes to find fault with my opinion it will be for the country to do so.