NATIONAL REGISTRATION.

Bruce Herald, Volume LI, Issue 67, 30 August 1915, Page 4

NATIONAL REGISTRATION.

BILL INTRODUCED. MEN FROM 17 TO 60 YEARS INCLUDED. WELLINGTON, August 24. The National Registration Bill, which has been prepared by the Prime Minister, was introduced in the House of Representatives this afternoon. It- provides for a National register of men, but provision is made that similar information in regard to women may be asked for bv proclamation from time to time if it is considered necessary. The Bill provides that the male residents of the Dominion, between the ages of 17 and GO years, may be required by proclamation from time to time to furnish to the Government Statistician personal particulars in the form prescribed. Any such proclamation may relate generally to all men between the ages of 17 and 60 years, or may relate specially to any class or classes of men between those ages. Men may be classified with reference to age, locality of residence, occupation, or as to the number and condition of dependents, or in any other manner that may be deemed expedient. For the purpose of ascertaining the fitness for active, military service of persons to whom the provisions relate, any such persons may be required to submit themselves for medical inspection. A record of the report oi such inspection shall lie entered by the Go\einvnent Statistician in the national register. PENALTY CLAUSES. Any person who wilfully fails to furnish the particulars required shall be liable to a fine of not less than £5 and not exceeding £IOO, or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months. After the particulars have been obtained by the Government Statistician he shall as soon as practicable compile a national registrar of men in such form as may be prescribed. Provision is made for' the maintenance of secrecy as to the contents of the register. Any person who unlawfully makes use of any information contained therein shall be liable to a fine of £IOO. Regulations for the carrying into effect of the provisions of the Act maybe made by Order-in-Council.