CANADA’S ARMY

Grey River Argus, 31 July 1940, Page 5

CANADA’S ARMY

A CORPS FOR BRITAIN Remainder for Home Defence [Aus. & N.Z. Cable Assn.] (Received July 30, 5.5 p.m.) OTTAWA. July 29. Hon. Mr. Ralston, in the House of Commons, said: “The front line is now the island fortress of the Bntisn Isles. Canada will shortly have » corps of two divisions in that front line.” Outlining the military programme, the Minister added that it would not serve the common cause, at present, to have any additional Canadians in England, where ll^ re was no shortage of man-power. Jhe real demand there was for equipment. j „„ nnn While it was calling up 3U,uuu monthly, under the National Kesources Mobilisation Act, the Government of Canada did not intend, at present', to send any more troops overseas, or to increase the Canadian active service forces, he said At present, it was not contemplated that the Canadian corps of two divisions in England would be enlarged, but the third and fourth divisions now being completed would be equipped and trained in Canada An eastern command was being established in the maritime provinces to control Newfoundland. Iceland, and the West Indies. These troops would also provide a defence against a possible attack.

Recruiting for non-permanent militia was being suspended on August 15, after which men would enter that militia as they would be called up. under the Mobilisation Act. Those aged 21 and 22 years would begin thirty days of training on October 1. The total strength of the Canadian active service forces at home and abroad was 133.00 CL