TERRITORIAL OR MILITARY TRAINING

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 16, 13 October 1927, Page 13

TERRITORIAL OR MILITARY TRAINING

Sir,—l have just read tho letter of “ex-N.Z.E.F.," and with all due respects to him I am not yet convinced that military training should bo continued, and at least not as it is conducted now. I have voted for the Reform Government ajl my life, but there are some things they stand for that I object to, and military training is one. of them. I believe compulsory physical training in their own borne towns and voluntary rifle clubs would be much ffiore acceptable to New Zealanders, and co as far towards making the armv. You would thus get tho male population fit and ready for soldiers whenever the occasion arose, clearing ourselves of the experience d«ring tho lato war of poor physique, apd poor percentage of good rifle shots. This scheme would bo most popular throughout the whole of the Dominion. The Reform Government could put themselves in strong if they niado some movement in abolishing the present system of military training, and substituted that which will be favourable to those most con ' cerned. thus securing their help and assistance. What wo want is love of work and industry, and our menfolk physically fit and ready (o fight right royally should (he occasion arise, for the love of their King and country, and the present military training is not attaining this end.—l atn. etc.. GOMAIERCIAL TRAVELLER. Auckland. Oclober 10.