SERVICE TO THE NATION

Press, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22271, 9 December 1937, Page 8

SERVICE TO THE NATION

ABLE MEN WANTED FOR PUBLIC LIFE APPEAL BY PRESIDENT OF NATIONAL PARTY [THE PRESS Special Servlce.l WELLINGTON, December 8. The need for men of sound beliefs and high integrity to assist in the governing of the country was emphasised by Mr C. H. Weston, K.C., Dominion president of the National Party, in a statement to-night, in which he urged that such men should consent to offer themselves for service in Parliament and public life when asked to do so. The next election in New Zealand was close at hand, and the time had come for the selection of candidates to stand in the interests of the National Party. It was only fair to the candidate and to the parly that selections in the electorates should be made soon, he said. There was a tendency for men who were eminently suited to public life to withhold their consent and leave the burden of responsibility to others perhaps less qualified than themselves. “Written in the short history of this country,” he said, “are the names of men of high character and qualifications who have at considerable sacrifice given their services to their fellow men. To the memory of such men. the citizens of this country owe a great deal, and their names will always be mentioned with respect and pride. The time is now opportune for us to consider whether in the ranks of the community there are not men who should accept the call and serve their country in the Dominion Parliament, and to such men I make a special appeal. Through the magnificent foresight of parliamentarians of the past we enjoy unequalled opportunities; the highest education and the freest opportunity in commerce have been made available to the humblest in the land. Interest in Politics “If we are to preserve our heritage and build this nation on British constitutional lines, those who have accepted the great advantages of New Zealand citizenship must place their experience and ability at the service of their country. I appreciate the action of those who have already agreed to come forward as candidates, and congratulate them most heartily. There are indications that there is a new and real interest in political affairs. and I trust the next Parliament will be a true and fair representation of the citizens of this country, and a credit to its people. “I make an appeal also to members of the younger generation to take their full share in shaping and controlling the Government of the country,” continued Mr Weston. “The foundations have been well laid in the past, but the future is in the hands of the coming generation. It is imperative, therefore, that young voteis should take their part in carrying on the traditions which their forbears have established. We have all to face our obligations of good citizenship. and I issue this appeal confidently in the hope that those who are apnroached to stand for Parliament will give their services willingly, even at the cost of some sacrifice, in order that the Dominion may be governed by the wisest counsels available.