CABINET POSTS

Evening Post, Volume CXXIX, Issue 139, 13 June 1940, Page 11

CABINET POSTS

TWO APPOINTMENTS

NATIONAL SERVICE AND

REPATRIATION

MR. SEMPLE AND MR. WILSON

The appointmehts of the Hon. R. Sernple as Minister of National Service and Minister of Repatriation, and of the Hon. D. 'Wilson, M.L.C.. as associate Minister in both instances, were announced today by the Prime Minister (the Hon. P. Fraser).

In his new capacity as Minister of National Service, Mr. Semple will be in charge of the administration of the National Emergency Act and its regulations so far as they apply to persons in both a military and civil sense. Mr. Fraser said that as soon as the necessary regulations were gazetted! an organisation would be set up drawing to a very great extent on the man-power organisation already in existence.' Referring to repatriation, the Prime Minister said'that valuable exploratory work had already been undertaken and reports had been made available. "It is probable that a committee, on which there will be Departmental officers, will be set up by the Minister," said Mr. Fraser. "Already I have indicated to the R.S.A. that if such a committee is set up.it is probable that they will be asked to nominate experienced men."

Commenting on these administrative posts, Mr. Fraser said that in the general opinion both appointments would give every satisfaction. Mr. Semple's energy and capacity were well known to everyone, and he could be relied upon to handle the many problems associated with National Service with his customary vigour and efficiency. Mr. Wilson's ability as an organiser had been amply demonstrated in repeated political campaigns, and more recently connection with recruiting activities and the Manpower organisation. "Mr Wilson, though a comparatively new Minister, has already proved his ability," added Mr. Fraser.