DEFENCE OF DOMINION

Wairarapa Times-Age, 29 March 1939, Page 7

DEFENCE OF DOMINION

ORGANISATION NECESSARY. VIEWS OF MR A. HAMILTON. (Bv Telegraph—Tress Association.) AUCKLAND. March 28. "I am not satisfied that the Government is genuinely and sufficiently enthusiastic in its approach to the question of defence,” said the Leader of the Opposition, when: speaking in Te Awamutu tonight. “It is capitalising the present international tension to distract people’s attention from the Government’s self-made serious financial crisis.” he continued.

"In the most essential practical manner organising of the preparedness of the people themselves, its work is negligible. I want to see a determined lead given to the rank and file of our people. Everybody must have a job to do and know where to go and how to do it. In a time of crisis the Dominion is allowed to maintain organisations worthy of a rabble while conditions demands preparedness, not only in materials but also in organisation and men. If Mr Savage is genuine in his approach to the subject, he will give the lead. “We must act through the trades unions and through all social and industrial organisations in our community. The trades unions organisation is in a good position to co-operate in a community scheme. . Let employer and employee alike combine in an effort to drive home the necessity for personal preparedness, self-reliance and initiative in our national defence. “The country is crying out for a strong lead. It is a matter for discussion in terms of hours and days and not in the terms of months and years.”