MEN FOR THE WAR

Evening Post, Volume XCVI, Issue 14, 16 July 1918, Page 8

MEN FOR THE WAR

REDUCING REINFORCEMENTS.

The Acting-Prime Minister (Sir James Allen) stated to-day that the shipping of. reinforcements would'revert immediately to the rate which preceded the increase of the past few months. ' -, As far' as shipping has permitted, New Zealand has increased the reinforcements during recent months, in accordance with thft Imperial Government's request. The rate will be reduced for a time, unless the unexpected happens.

The Acting-Prime Minister • (Sir James Allen) stated to-day that the casualties had riot been as heavy as anticipated. The Government had utilised all available shipping to send away an extra number of men, but from now on new drafts could not be trained and landed in time for this year's offensives. In view of this position and the fact that the casualties were below the estimate, the Imperial Government had stated that New Zealand could revert—temporarily, at least—to the lower reinforcement quota which had been adopted some time before this year's increase was put' on. There was a proviso that if the casualties were heavy during the next few months it might be necessary to increase the strength of the drafts later on. The new arrangement for a reduction would take effect at once in the shipment of men, but would not apply to the next draft to be mobilised. The extra number this time wouH be needed to make up shortages in camp.