SHOULD BACK UNITED NATIONS

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23023, 13 August 1949, Page 4

SHOULD BACK UNITED NATIONS

Sir,—At a recent referendum some 2423 Gisborne pakeha electors voted against compulsory military training, believing that to prepare for defence would lead to war. Being opposed to war these people should support the organisation that works to prevent wars, that is U.N.O. In March, 1947, a public meeting was called to form a Gisborne branch of the United Nations’ Association. The meeting was unable to make progress owing to lack of interest. Only a handful was present, including the Mayor and the national organiser, and it was felt that unless more general interest were shown the organisation could not progress in Gisborne. One is led to wonder where were the 2423 people that say they oppose war. It is up to them to get behind U.N.O. to ensure that peace will reign on earth. The 7871 who voted for training should likewise support U.N.O. as they hold that they also want peace. All those that want peace should support the organisation that it trying to prevent wars. It is hoped that the 10,090-odd voters will join U.N.O. and thus help to maintain peace; and that the thousands who did not vote, including those under 21, will likewise lend their aid. And what of those thousands of Maoris who voted for or against military training. Let these co-operate with the pakeha" in support of U.N.O. to prove that New Zealanders are a united people in their desire for peace. BUACAIN