THE WAR EFFORT

Evening Star, Issue 23497, 10 February 1940, Page 19

THE WAR EFFORT

OFFER TO RAISE SCOTTISH BATTALION VARYING VIEWS ON CONSCRIPTION [Per United Press Association.] WELLINGTON, February 9. An offer to the Government to raise a Scottish battalion for . overseas service was made to-day by Mr J. G. Mackenzie on behalf of the New Zealand Scottish Territorial Association and the Wellington Association of Scots’ Societies, Mr Mackenzie, who is president of the former body and chairman of the latter, said that the two bodies guaranteed the enlistment of the men and the necessary reinforcements. “ Canada and other dominions already have such battalions serving in France,” Mr Mackenzie said. “We have, New Zealand Scottish territorial companies in tho four centres and tho men are keen to retain their identity and enlist as a body before further enlistments reduce their strength. Outside the four centres strong support for a New Zealand Scottish, Battalion is promised. “ Tradition and sentiment still count for much,” Mr Mackenzie said. “ This fact is recognised by tho Imperial War Office. The New Zealand Scottish Territorial Companies are at present a distinct asset to tho Dominion, and a New Zealand Scottish Battalion should follow. The question of wearing the kilt does not enter into the matter. All rye ask is the Glengarry cap and distinct hat and shoulder badges, such ns the territorials have at present.” INVERCARGILL, February 9. The opinion that hundreds of young men would • do their part in the war if conscription of man-power was introduced was expressed in a resolution by members of the Southland County Council. 11 Many people are becoming discontented at the attitude of the Government,” said the chairman (Mr J. Dennis). “ There are hundreds of young men prepared to go to the war, but they are awaiting a lead. Many are occupied in essential industries, and they are waiting for the Government to say who should go and who should remain to do the work at home. This matter has been treated too much as a political question. It is a national question, and should be faced accordingly.” WELLINGTON, February 9. The Makara County Council to-day passed a resolution supporting the Prime Minister’s assurance that New Zealand will support the Allies to the extent of a maximum war effort. An amendment favouring conscription was lost on tho casting vote of tho chairman. During Iho discussion, one speaker said the members of the council could not set out to express the views of those they represented on tho subject of conscription.