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Grey River Argus, 23 October 1915, Page 4

IN yesterday's cables there appeared an item of news that may have passied comparatively unnoticed, but which is of the greatest importance to the Dominions. As all are aware Lord Derby has devised a scheme to secure the nc cessary number of recruits for the British Army without having to introduce conscription. The plan has met with general approv al, and it is recognised that if it does not accomplish its purpose, there is no alternative but conscription. The , shirkers in Britain, who are exceedingly wise in that if they stay in ,the Motherland there is no way of getting out of their obligations to shoulder a rifle in defence of the Empire. They are, therefore, attempting to evade their duty by emigrating to Canada, Australia, or New Zealand. The various Do minion Governments should be on the alert, and take prompt steps to deal with this menace, for menace it certainly is creatures who would leave the Motherland at a time when she requires, every man's aid are not suitable members of any respectable society, and should be refused admission

to our shores. During the progress oJ the Avar no man who is of mili ia ry age should be allowed to come to the Dominion from the Motherland. We have unfortunately too many of the shirkers' class in the country alerady, and the example and precept of others of that ilk would do a vast amount of harm to the cause of recruiting. Men who would otherwise willingly give their services will certainly hold back if they know that as soon as they leave their positions to go and do their part in the great struggle that the Empire is making in defence of liberty, their places will be filled by a number of undesirable immiarrants who would not raise their hand to save the Motherland/ It is a peculiar thing that although Nature has deprived them of powerful voices and a great deal of conceit, and they are. ever ready to critise the actions of those who are doing a man's part. Always on the look out for an easy life these wastrels are constantly causing trouble in the industrial life of the country, and it is from their ranks that labour agitators are mainly recruiting. The National Government* should take steps at once to prevent the entry of any of these shirkers into New Zealand. If they are unwilling to fight for the Empire they should be made to get out of it. An employer who would give work to one of this class is deserving of the severest censure.