MR. FRASER REPLIES TO QUESTIONS

Dominion, Volume 36, Issue 307, 22 September 1943, Page 8

MR. FRASER REPLIES TO QUESTIONS

Soldiers On Furlough BROADCAST FACILITIES AND BANKING Questions were answered by the Prime Alinister. Air. Fraser, at the conclusion of an address to electors in the Brougham Street Hall, XX’ellington, last night. 'Replying to an inquiry concerning equality of broadcasting facilities for. all political parties, he said that 11 allocations had been, made to Labour and 11 to Opposition speakers. They had got facilities according to the size of the parties and their sense of responsibility. The National Party wanted to go backward and still backward. The Labour Party was going forward and still further forward. The others represented no - real section of tlie people at all. They had merely wandered into the fight and not only had they received the consideration to which they were entitled but more generous treatment than they deserved. Stating that he had been requested by several men on furlough from the Middle East lo ask the question, a woman asked if they were expected to go back a second time before other men were sent. Mr. Fraser said this matter would have to be considered by the Government. The men had come back ou the understanding that it was furlough and unless trained men returned to the theatre of war the others left there would not be able to go on furlough. The most he could say was that the matter was being examined and that in his opinion married men should be given the opportunity, if they so desired. to remain in New Zealand. The questioner asked what would be the.position of single men. Air. Fraser said it might be a question for the Appeal Courts, but if the Government was returned to office it might be one of the first things it would have to consider.

Asked why the Government did not take over the banking system, Mr. Fraser said it was not necessary. As long as the Government controlled currency and credit that was adequate. The Government was using the credit resources of the country. It had already used up to £30,000.000, and, when wise purchasing returned, it would be necessary to refinance industry and house building to a greater extent than ever before. The control of credit was as complete as it could be with the Reserve Bank aud the existing regulations. Supporting the appointment of Mr. McLngaii to the Upper House and to Cabinet. Mr. Fraser said the job had to be filled by a man who knew something about manpower, and it was 'completely justified.