DECISION REVERSED

Wairarapa Times-Age, 30 March 1939, Page 8

DECISION REVERSED

COMPULSORY REGISTRATION IN AUSTRALIA CLASSIFICATION OF SKILLED WORKERS. NO OBLIGATION TO SERVE IMPLIED. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright. CANBERRA. March 29. The Federal Cabinet today decided upon a compulsory register of Commonwealth man-power, thus reversing its decision for a voluntary register taken at the recent session in Hobart. The Prime Minister’s stated object was to ensure the classification of skilled persons “in relation to the demands of the navy, army, air toree and the essential industries in the event of an emergency.” The registration, he added, in no way impfied obligation to serve in the armed forces or in any particular form of industry.

LABOUR OPPOSED , 4 INTRODUCTION OF CONSCRIPTION. EITHER OF ARMED FORCES OR INDUSTRY. (Received This Day, 11.35 a.m.) PERTH, This Day. The Leader of the Federal Opposition, Mr John Cprtin said: “Labour will oppose any set up for the introduction of conscription, either oi armed forces or industry. THREAT OF STRIKE. IN HQPE pF PARALYSING} ' DKFpNCE PLANS. SYDNEY. This Day. Leaders in the metal trade unions declared they y/quld advise aH members to defy the Federal Government and refuse to supply any information, desuite the fact that the register was to be compulsory. Union leaders already have depided, if any attempt is made to compel employees to register that they will not hesitate to order strikes in the hope of paralysing the defence programme. ALL MALES TO REGISTER. BETWEEN 15 AND 64 YEARS,. (Received This Day, 11.35 a.m.) CANBERRA, This Day. It is proposed that the National register shall include all male persons between the ages qf 15 and 64.