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1949 NEW ZEALAND

COMPULSORY MILITARY TRAINING STATEMENT RELATIVE TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SERVICES AND THE OPERATION OF THE SCHEME

Presented to both Houses of Parliament by Leave

COMPULSORY MILITARY TRAINING BEOUIREMENTS OF THE SERVICES ANT) OPERATION OF THE. SCHEME 1. The compulsory Military Training Poll Act, 1949, provides for the takingof a poll on the adoption of a system of compulsory military training to meet the requirements of the non-regular forces. The introduction of such a system, is necessary as a detailed examination of the position has disclosed that itwould be impossible, under a system of voluntary service, to obtain the-non-regular forces that are considered essential for New Zealand's defence: requirements in the event of an emergency. 2. Although the personnel required for the non-regular Naval and Air Forces will be obtained on a voluntary basis from those who have registered in accordance with their liability (see paragraph 5 (1) below), the adoption of a system of compulsory training will assist those Services in completing the non-regular establishments that have been authorized. With regard tp the Army, compulsory military training is absolutely essential if it is to be able* to fulfil the tasks that are likely to present themselves in an emergency. 3. Arrangements will be made whereby men called up for training will be given the option of joining the non-regular Naval or Air Forces and,, subject to Service requirements and the needs of Navy and Air, they will be accepted for these Services. Otherwise, they will be required to serve in the; Army.