UNITY OF EMPIRE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20489, 25 February 1941, Page 11

UNITY OF EMPIRE

COMMON CAUSE FIGHTING “HOLY WAR” JUSTICE FOR WORLD CHILDREN OF FUTURE MR. MENZIES' REMINDER (Elec. Tel. Copyright—United Press Assn.) (British Official \VireJess.) Reed. 2.15 p.m. RUGBY, Feb. 23. The impression that a united Empire is behind Britain’s war effort is gained from a broadcast speech made to-day by the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. R. G. Menzies. “You must never even be tempted to think that your fight is a lonely one,” said Mr. Menzies. “I am sure that not only for Australia, but for the whole of the British Empire beyond the seas, I can say to you: Wc are in -this most holy war with you. Everything wc have of man-power or treasure, of skill or of determination is pledged to work and light for you and with you until victory is attained and a better, more just day dawns for the world in which our children are to live.

“This is supported by every deed of which we are capable. The total population of Australia is considerably less than the population of London, but the Australian Imperial Forces already make an army corps, thousands of thq personnel of which have already made their blows.

“I have visited the Mediterranean ships of the Royal Australian Navy which, from the day war broke out, have co-operated with yours, in the seven seas and have, by skill and fighting qualities, not subtracted frpm the glories of the. Royal Navy. “I have seen the. Empire air training scheme grow in power until it has brought into training not hundreds but thousands of young Australians who are entering the air war with their brothers of Britain and the other Dominions. We are destined to see the British Empire just as much mistress of the air as she has been these many generations the sure protector of the seas.

“Add to these things our munitions effort, which already produces 20 times our volume of production when the war began, and you will see that Australia’s messenger brings no empty words.”