THE AGE LIMIT FOR SOLDIERS.

Auckland Star, Volume XLVII, Issue 30, 4 February 1916, Page 8

THE AGE LIMIT FOR SOLDIERS.

(To the F.dltor.)

p ' r . —May I be permitted to endorse what your correspondents, "Colonial" and Mr Mason, have «aid on this subject. The spectacle of able-ibodied men over 4o remaining safely in their homes, and at the same time trying to force lads of 19 and 20 to risk their lives for them and their interests is revolting to every decent-minded person. Everyone knows that many men between 45 anil 55, especially those used to an openair life, are better fitted to endure the hardships of a campaign than youths coming straight from an office or* a factory. Kvoryone knows, too, that the age limit does not limit. If a man over 45 is patriotic enough to want to go to the front lie simply goes to the recruiting office and gives his age as five or ten yeare lees than it really is. The officials don't ask awkward questions or demand birth certificates. Surely the medical men, who can tell almost at a glance it a man be "fit." might be trusted in tliis niatfer, and the age limit abolished altogether. Then those enthusiasts who are trying to hustle everyone but themselves into the Expeditionary Force would have no excuse for staying at home. Thore is also a great deal of nonsense talked about the married soldier. One of our local M.P.'s has pointed out very truly that the mother of a single man is just a.s deeply concerned for his safety as the wife and children of a married man. It married men wish to volunteer with, their wives' permission, and the Government nKree to maintain their depen- ; dents. why should anyone else iniind? It is only because tiie Government wants to limit the number of pensions payable to dependents that we hear so much of the "single men hrst" policy—just a question of saving money. He that as it may, however, il W to lie hoped that the age limit will' be dropped, and some efforts made to rope in lit men over 45, who a/c frantically trying to forco youtlu to enlist by every means in their power, including "starvation. Even those of us most opposed to compulsion would, I believe, rejoice to see a press-gang let loose anion" these people.—l am, etc.,

E. GLBSOX.