THE TERRITORIALS.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXXV, Issue 3830, 13 May 1913, Page 5

THE TERRITORIALS.

NOT MANY EVADING SERVICE

A REPLY TO PROFESSOR MILLS

Regarding the remarks made by Professor Mills to th* effect that only two-thirds cf those liable were actually in service under the Defence ■\ct ” a “Times” reporter spoke to Captain Shelly and Lieut, Bishop with reference to the .matter, and was shown fairly conclusively that it is but Few who succeed in evading their obligations. The percentage of those who were, under the regulations, dubbed as partially unfit- was about- 3U—-one-third, for argument s sake—and the whole of these were held liable tor what- is known as “non-combatant service ” and are putting in the required time in Defence Rifle Chibs. There was of courso, something like from 5 to iU per cent, of men actually unfit, and these will not he called on to serve, m face of the medical decision. Again, as books shown to the reporter proved, several were classed as not- fit for ser* vieo during the ensuing year, and these wore dulv notified and appeared for re-examination at the end oh the twelve months’ period. Some were then called on to serve, and others were allowed to stand over for another year, vhiffi a number wore pronounced as totally unfit, having shown no improvement. . It frequently happens that a man is in a weakened state iollowing an illness, and temporary exemption is then necessary. The examining officer has not, of courso. the great power of second sight which would enable him to foresee the man’s state of health twelve months ahead, and, at the end of that period, sliou'd the illness have left some lasting effect on tho man’s constitution, he will naturally be granted exemption. Another’point is that, as will be readily recognised, it is absolutely essential that the'Territorial Forces must he comprised of men of good health, and, as far as possib’e, uniform physique, and for this reason a standard was sot for the medical inspectors to go by. Some men had thus to be rejected, as their height and other physical qualifications were not up to requirements, but. provided their general health was good and only their build at- faiilt, they were called on to serve in rifle clubs. The authorities spoken to were of opinion that the Professor’s statement was made without- tho slightest justification.