SCOTTISH BATTALION PROPOSED

Press, Volume LXXVI, Issue 22941, 10 February 1940, Page 12

SCOTTISH BATTALION PROPOSED

— : OFFER MADE TO GOVERNMENT crncsa association celeqkau.) WELLINGTON, February 9. An offer to .the Government to raise a Scottish battalion for overseas service was made to-day by Mr J. G. Mackenzie on behalf of the New Zealand Scottish Territorial Association and the Wellington Association of Scots’ Societies. Mr Mackenzie is president of the New Zealand Scottish Territorial Association and chairman of the Wellington Association of Scots’ Societies. He said that the two bodies guaranteed the enlistment of men and necessary reinforcements. “Canada and other Dominions already have such battalions serving in France,” ; said Mr Mackenzie. "We have New Zealand Scottish territorial companies in the four centres, and the men are keen to retain their identity and enlist as a'body befpre further enlistments reduce their strength. Outside the four centres strong support for a New Zealand Scottish Battalion is promised. Tradition and sentiment still count for much. This fact is recognised by the Imperial War Office. “The New Zealand Scottish territorial companies are at present a distinct asset to the Dominion, and a New Zealand Scottish Battalion should follow. Wqaripg of the kilt does not enter into the question. All we ask is a Glengary cap and a distinct hat, and shoulder badges, such as territorials have at present.” - .