HON. F. JONES

Grey River Argus, 16 July 1943, Page 4

HON. F. JONES

Reviews Tour > ■ fe allied air power big FACTOR. (Rec. 12.30.) CANBERRA, July 15. Hon. F. Jones after fifty-six thousand miles of travelling abroad, including an inspection of New Zealanders in North Africa, painted a rosv picture to-day of a flood of help that would reach this corner of the world as against the Japanese when the European theatre was finished He said air power had been one of the big factors sealing the- fate of the Axis in North Africa. He predicted a mighty air armada would be onp day used against Japan. Mr. Jones came to Australia to meet General Freyberg. In talks with General MacArthur and Admiral Halsev. he learned satisfactory progress wag being; made in the new offensive against the Japanese, and that the utmost co-operation was being exercised by those responsible for the South-west and South Pacific operations. Everywhere he went, said Mr. Jones, he heard stories of the great lighting qualities of New Zealanders. British officers were high in their praise of their courage, which was best indicated bv the fact that of sixty-six Victoria Crosses awarded in this’ war, six had been won by New Zealanders. Men of his country were delighted to see him. Some had been abroad more than three years. They were anxious to learn of doings at home, especially the latest information on the burning question How are the Japs?” Mr. Jones told interviewers: “Although vou are nearer to that menace, we do no like them any more than vou do.”