UNITY IN PEACE.

Taranaki Daily News, 2 March 1921, Page 5

UNITY IN PEACE.

EMPIRE’S EX-SOLDIERS. ’■ —4O MESSAGE FROM THE KING. „ EMPIRE LEAGUE FORMED. *• - ... • 4 $ By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright, Received Maxell I, 5.5 p.m. Capetown, Feb. 28. The Empire conference of ex-service men has opened at the City Hall. A message was read from the King declaring that he was sure the union of the Empire warriors would strengthen the splendid spirit of fellowship evinced in the Avar and give new life to the noble British ideals they fought so gallantly and successfully to save. Lord Haig, who is presiding, in a speech, dwelt upon the common heritage all parts represented possessed in the Empire. They were partners in a world-wide federation of nations, owning the King as a symbol of unity.

A resolution to form a British Empire League of Ex-Service Men was adopted, and a discussion followed on the basis of representation. Mr. Dyett, an Australian delegate, said the Dominions should each have one vote, not a vote for every ex-service organisation as suggested for South Africa, because the latter, unlike Australia, had failed to link up rival organisations. Mr. Leadley, a New Zealand delegate, considered Mr. Dyett was making a mountain out of a molehill. It was not a question of South Africa outvoting Australia or New Zealand: they were there for each other’s benefit.

It was ultimately agreed that Britain and each Dominion have two votes each. General Smuts (Premier of South Africa) said he hoped the conference would help the Governments to deal with the welfare of soldiers. There was a true and honest desire by the Governments and the peoples of all parts of the Empire to do their best to meet cases of hardship. Lord Haig said the bond which held ex-service men together should never be loosened,, but should be handed unbroken and unbreakable down to our children’s children. There should be a guarantee for all time throughout the wide Empire lof the maintenance of the high ideals for which they fought.