SECRET SESSION

Wairarapa Times-Age, 7 June 1940, Page 4

SECRET SESSION

CONCLUDED IN HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES NEW ZEALAND WAR EFFORT DISCUSSED. ADDRESS-IN-REPLY TODAY (By Telegraph—Press Association.) WELLINGTON, This Day. Another day was occupied by the House of Representatives yesterday in secret discussion on New Zealand’s war effort. Full advantage was apparently taken of the opportunity for a debate on the Dominion’s contribution to the Allied cause, and the view was expressed b“ the Prime Minister, Mr Fraser, that the secret session was serving its purpose very well indeed. The session concluded late last night, when the House adjourned till this afternoon. A start will then be made with the Address-m-Reply debate which will be opened by Mr Moncur (Government, Rotorua), and Mr Skinner (Government, Motueka), the mover and seconder respectively.. After their speeches the House will adjourn till Tuesday, or possibly Wednesday. The debate, which under normal conditions often lasts three weeks or more, is not expected on this occasion to extend beyond a few days at the very most. The usual practice is to open the Address-in-Reply debate at night, and for the mover and seconder to wear evening dress. It is a reflection of the times that the seconder in today’s debate will be in khaki, for Mr Skinner is a private in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force now in training in Trentham. Referring to the secret session in an interview yesterday. Mr Fraser said it had enabled members to get a complete grasp of New Zealand’s war effort. The helpful criticisms which were given with practicable suggestions were welcome. A secret session of such a type gave members full opportunity for frank and friendly discussion conducted in a co-operative spirit. AN OFFICIAL REPORT. The following report of the proceedings at the secret session was issued under the authority of the Speaker, Mr Barnard: — “The Prime Minister, in moving the adjournment of the House, gave an outline of the international situation and a history of the organisation for national security, and of the dispatch of forces overseas. The Minister of Defence reviewed the conferences and consultations that had taken place on the defence needs of this country. He then outlined the developments in the three fighting services, both as regards personnel and equipment. An outline of the provision made for training was also given. Particulars of the assistance in trained personnel given and to be given overseas were furnished.” Twenty-eight speakers took part in the debate. The House rose at 11.15 p.m. till 2.39 p.m. today.