OTHER PEOPLE’S IDEAS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 1 May 1942, Page 2

OTHER PEOPLE’S IDEAS

WAR PRECAUTIONS (To the Editor.) Sir, —In going round my regular job I find things which in my humble opinion are detrimental to our war effort. The principal of these recently have been the results of the public utterances of some of our leaders. Let me here state, that I> do not doubt their loyalty or good faith. We have all heard or read these statements. They are “I don't think it necessary,” “In my opinion based on the opinion etc.” “It can’t happen here,” etc., ad nauseam. These were the clarion cries of 70 or 80 per cent of the nations in Europe who were afterwards invaded. It would appear that every regulation that is brought out must be challenged. This is quite proper in normal times and is the privilege of democracy, but in these times, I can think of but few things that the enemy would desire more. In support of my contention I will quote one case that came before my personal notice. A lady to whom I was talking recently, actually said that our air raid precautions, etc., were a lot of tommy rot, and when I challenged this statement she immediately trotted out the public utterance of one of our leaders. Now I don’t believe in recriminations and would not have written this letter were not the need of unity so great, but I would appeal to our leaders to refrain from expressing personal opinions that are against our war effort. Surely this is a time when we should have but one purpose and that is to be prepared for all emergencies. What matter if these preparations are never needed? That would not cause us any worry, while the reverse would, and so I conclude and sign myself.— UNITED WE STAND.