K Force Of N.Z. Something Over Thousand Men

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23343, 28 August 1950, Page 6

K Force Of N.Z. Something Over Thousand Men

WELLINGTON, Aug. 26,

K Force—the New Zealand combat unit to go to Korea —is to number “something over 1000 men.” It is to be the artillery component of a British Commonwealth brigade.

Pay is to be based on the volunteer Territorial Force rate —15s a day for privates—and will be subject to taxation.

These tacts were stated by the Minister of Defence. Mr. T. L. Macdonald, during the passage of the Emergency Forces Bill through the Plouse of Representatives yesterday. The Minister explained that the part New Zealanders were to play in Korea had been decided after consultation with the United Kingdom and Australia. The offer had been readily accepted by the United Nations. After stating that 5982 volunteers had been enrolled from July 27 to August 5. the Minister said that in selecting the force preference had been given to men between the ages of 21 and 27. Some others had to be accepted because of previous experience or of qualification for specialist roles. “We hope that our boys will not be required,’’ said the Attorney-General, Mr. T. C. Webb, in reference to the Navy. “The news has been more encouraging than we have had. but at the same time it will not do to be overoptimistic." Mr. Webb said he understood there would be no further need to call on the Navy and that was the reason why there was no reference in the bill to that arm of the Services.