PARLIAMENT—AND CRETE

Auckland Star, Volume LXXII, Issue 137, 12 June 1941, Page 6

PARLIAMENT— AND CRETE

The campaigns of Greece and Crete are over, and we in this land have been conscious of being the spectators of two great human tragedies in which our sons have been actors. Parliament is meeting and its members must realise that they owe a solemn duty to those whose loved ones lie in Grecian fields to probe the facts. Excuses, such as honouring political pledges and delaying actions, are not enough. Military campaigns that at the outset have no chance of success are not worth the lives of heroic men. The battle for Crete was lost in the first 12 hours, when the only aerodrome was lost. Yet even after that Mr. Churchill, speaking in the Commons, said "that no matter what the outcome of this heroic battle Crete will be defended to the last," Fortunately, wiser counsels prevailed, and after 12 days over half of its gallant defenders were saved. Saved for what? Australia has spoken in emphatic terms. Her troops "must be provided with efficient air support." New Zealand must demand the same! Let Parliament speak for the people on behalf of their sons! This ig not the time for the choruses of yes-men or the crack of party whips. Nor is it defeatism. We would be traitors to the men who have gone, and to those who are to follow, and to the cause of the British Commonwealth, to remain silent. G. C. ROSS.