TRIP INTO DESERT

Evening Post, Volume CXXXI, Issue 119, 22 May 1941, Page 11

TRIP INTO DESERT

THE PRIME MINISTER

TROOPS IN TRAINING

"A FINE HERITAGE"

(N.Z.E.F. Official News Service.)

CAIRO, May 20.

Travelling many miles out into the desert this morning, the New Zealand Prime Minister, Mr. Fraser, maintained the schedule which he laid down for himself, providing for a personal visit to as many men of the N.Z.E.F. as possible. Today he saw a formation of New Zealand troops engaged in desert training.

"Though these conditions are far different from those in your own country you seem remarkably fit and well," said Mr. Fraser. He congratulated them on their appearance, and reminded them that they had a fine heritage which he was sure they would preserve with all their might. The shining example set by the New Zealand troops in Greece was an inspiration to democratic youth. He said he was sure that when the time came they would do their job just as well.

In the course of his inspection Mr. Fraser visited a desert dental hospital. It was complete with chair, drill, steriliser, and other dental equipment necessary for the efficient care of teeth. While visiting a desert medical hospital he saw a field ambulance which had been presented to the New Zealand forces by the people of Paisley, Scotland.

Yesterday afternoon a luncheon party was given at the British Embassy in honour of the Prime Minister. The luncheon was attended by Hussein Sirry Pasha, Premier, and other Egyptian Cabinet Ministers, General and Lady Wavell, General Sir Thomas Blarney, the United States Minister, Mr. Kirk, and some senior New Zealand staff officers.

The base commandant of the N.Z.E.F. gave a largely-attended reception at Shepheard's Hotel in the evening for Mr. Fraser; Among others present were the British Ambassador and Lady Lampson. the Greek Minister and Madame Capsalis, and also senior officers of the Services.