WAR PLANS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 7 November 1939, Page 4

WAR PLANS

MR FRASER’S DISCUSSIONS IN LONDON PROPOSED ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENTS. FINANCING EXPEDITIONARY FORCE. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright (Received This Day, 9 a.m.) LONDON, November 6. The. transfer of men and machinery from certain public works to primary production in order to expand New Zealand’s war effort will be considered should Britain indicate that her requirements warrant such a move. This , is one of several possible important readjustments of New Zealand’s economy envisaged after .Mr P. Fraser’s first week of talks with members of the British Cabinet.

Mr Fraser has already participated in general discussions on Empire war finance with Sir John Simon (Chancellor of the Exchequer) and later intends to go into a more detailed examination of New Zealand’s position with the Treasury. It will include the method of financing New Zealand’s Expeditionary Force. It is understood that the cost will be met by a loan, as in the last war.

Arrangements for the supply of meat, butter and cheese are on the eve of completion and the agreed prices between the British and New Zealand governments will be announced shortly. Mr Fraser conferred at length with Mr E. L. Burgin (Minister of Supply) whose Department he described as most efficient and certain to play a crucial part in the prosecution of the war. He assured Mr Burgin and also members of the British Government generally that New Zealand was anxious to use all her resources of, land, labour and machinery in order to increase the production of commodities Britain needs most. It is understood that one of the most heartening signs from New Zealand’s viewpoint is the likelihood in Britain of an increased demand for flax, resulting in benefits to a languishing industry.

The trans-Tasman air service was among the most important topics raised immediately after the New Zealand delegation’s arrival. Mr Fraser emphasising the defence aspects urging inauguration of the service without delay.

Regarding general war plans. Mr Fraser said, in a statement to the Australian Associated Press:—“l am greatly impressed with the evidence of extensive preparations and the efficiency’ of the three fighting services. I had an opportunity of seeing something of the widespread organisation of Britain’s defence which should inspire confidence in the Dominions. As far as laymen can judge, Britain’s war services and leaders have never been more efficient.”

Mr Fraser spent the morning at Scotland Yard, where he discussed New Zealand’s proposal to appoint women police with Miss Peto, Superintendent of the Women's branch, and examined all aspects of the work of such a force. It is admitted that the problem differs greatly in each country, but Mr Fraser is taking back valuable information, especially regarding preventive work.