DEFENCE OF N.Z.

Grey River Argus, 28 April 1942, Page 1

DEFENCE OF N.Z.

Mr Nash’s Broadcast MORE U.S. AID ASSURED. WASHINGTON, April 26. Mr. Nash, broadcasting to the American nation, and to New Zealand said: “Notwithstanding the most expert military opinion, we feel that our country .is in grave danger, but I can assure New Zealanders that right now American planes, reinforcements and equipment are going to their parts.”, Mr. Nash added that the Pacific, like other theatres, demands unified command and unconditional pooling of forces and equipment; “The establishment of a Pacific War Council in Washington is the most significant step hitherto taken to meet these strategic imperatives. It will assure that small and big voices will be heard in the councils of war and peace. I believe th>» present arrangements will provide means for the establishment of a common strategic plan embracing the whole Pacific area, and other main theatres, with a single aim—early'victory. “New Zealanders are natural ly mostly interested to halt the Japanese advance southward, but do not overlook the equally serious—perhaps more serious—consequesces that would result )Crom an inva-'ion of India. New Zealanders, therefore, fervently hope that ways will yet be found lb satisfy India’s national as- 1 pirations. and Ipdia will soon accept admission into full responsible partnership with other free democratic peoples, as a strong, determined, united nation. If Japan however, goes southward, instead of westward, ’hen they will find —here I speak of Australia as well as New Zealand—nhe most risky and most difficult venture they have so far attempted.” - ■ ’ Mr. Nash concluded: “New’Zealand, as a completely self-governing, independent nation, desires to make the ties with the United States, in peace as well as In war, as strong, close, and fruitful as those we already have with Britain.