COMPULSORY MILITARY SERVICE

Bay of Plenty Times, Volume LXXVII, Issue 14788, 29 September 1948, Page 3

COMPULSORY MILITARY SERVICE

OPPOSITION'S BELIEFS OUTLINED

Prompt Action In Facing Defence Needs

Support For Government Measures

(P.A.) Wellington, Sept. 28. The belief of the Opposition in some form of universal service by those capable of rendering it was expressed by the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Holland, in the House of Representatives tonight. He was definite, however, that the country should not wait for a referendum on the subject, and he pledged the support of the Opposition if and when compulsory service was introduced. "All of us are seized with the great importance of the Prime Minister's visit overseas, and everyone appreciates the heavy responsibility resting on him," said Mr Holland. "Some of the questions he has raised in his speech will make suitable subjects for later debates in the House. Among these are such problems as immigration, housing and customs unions.

"However, there is one controversial point I would like to touch upon. The Prime Minister and the Government can rely on the wholehearted support of the Opposition in any proposals to meet the defence needs of New Zealand. There are some matters that can be decided by a referendum, but I do not think universal service is one. The people look to the Government for leadership, and the Government should take a firm stand. "Today the world gropes for peace, but lives in the fear of war, and we cannot blind ourselves to the possiblities. It is only right that the Government should take a firm stand against any menace which presents itself. I am the first to sympathise with a Government which today finds itself possessed of a knowledge 'that reauircs certain action, and also finds itself faced by forces which would derive greater advantages from finding our country unprepared than prepared." ' Thanking Mr Fraser for his fearless exposure of a world situation which had become supercharged with explosive material that could burst into flames, Mr Holland said the fate of the United Nations nnd civilisation itself was in the balance.

"We can but pray for the success of both conferences." said Mr Holland. "I wish the Prime Minister God speed." There was loud applause for the Prim" Minister from both sides of the House when the adjournment was taken.