EMPIRE UNITY

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20954, 6 November 1939, Page 7

EMPIRE UNITY

HELP OF DOMINIONS REMARKABLE RESULTS TROOPS FOR ABROAD (Omcial Wireless* (Received Nov. 6, 11 a.m.) RUGBY, Nov. 5 At a time when representations of the Dominions and India are holding conversations in London editors of the Sunday newspapers take the opportunity of welcoming the remarkable unity of the Empire behind the Mother Country and surveying the war efforts which the various parts of the Empire can contribute. The Sunday Times says: “With no exception every Empire country is helping. Many naturally are limited to economic assistance, but Canada, Australia and New Zealand are training substantial bodies of troops and airmen. South Africa has undertaken the defence of British territories in Africa if they ask for help. “In deciding to recruit two divisions on a voluntary basis for service in Europe, Canada found their ranks filled almost immediately. These troops will have the fullest mechanical equipment and may be expected like the Canadian troops in the last war, to reach a specially high level of training. Australia and New Zealand “But the Empire’s main fighting contribution seems likely to be made in the air. Australia’s effort includes the building of three destroyers, the reorganisation of the army on a mechanised basis, the training of a special infantry force, and the expansion of the air force to nineteen squadrons. “The practical war effort of New Zealand is second to none, though naturally on a smaller scale. “Not less impressive has been the spontaneity of the support by non-self-goveming colonies, including so many populations distinct from us in race and often colour. Mr Chamberlain said, they have not been forced into the war by Grfeat Britain against their will. No ruling Power has aimed so consciously at substituting consent for force as the basis of Empire and replacing the policies of exploiting by policies of even-handed development and local freedom. “The loyalty now shown by those living beneath Britain’s flag affords testimony which is indeed precious that her long record of endeavour to rule disinterestedly has not been lost on the beneficiaries.” Removal of Peril The Observer says: “The present deliberations in London will facilitate the wise allocation of functions, so that every part of the Empire may most effectually bear its -part in the removal of the peril overhanging all. The industrial growth of the Empire countries has rendered them capable of a most valuable contribution to the equipment of a modern fighting force. “Nothing is more remarkable than the instant perception of Canada’s situation as geographical centre for the preparation of air power. “The .Mother .Country .and Dominions alike are preparing to organise their training of those squadrons which will ultimately overpower the utmost strength that the enemy can place on the field.”