SPEEDING UP

Evening Post, Volume CXXIX, Issue 121, 23 May 1940, Page 7

SPEEDING UP

AUSTRALIA'S WAR RESPONSE

(By Telegraph—Press Association.l

AUCKLAND, May 22

More drastic steps could be taken in Australia to further the war effort, according to the former Lord Mayor of Sydney, Sir Norman Nock, who is visiting Auckland in the course of a ( fortnight's visit to the Dominion. He said all the Dominions appeared to have been slow to realise the seriousness of the war in which the Empire was involved. That fact was reflected by the moneys collected for patriotic purposes in comparison with the sums contributed during the Great War. Sir Norman said there was a growing awareness of the situation in Australia and recruits for service in the forces were, coming forward steadily. Since hostilities began in September the course taken did not create the impression that any tremendous effort was necessary, but after the invasion of Belgium and Holland, Australians had set to with a will. "Everyone now feels that there should be more drastic steps taken," he said. "There is much to be done in handling men who are volunteering for service, but who cannot receive prompt training. However, the | Australian Government is doing all in its power to speed up its contribution." Sir Norman, who is accompanied by Lady Nock and their son, will leave shortly by motor-car for Wellington. He was previously in New Zealand when in the office of Lord Mayor of Sydney, for the opening of the Centennial Exhibition.