FOOD OR FIGHTERS?

Grey River Argus, 30 November 1943, Page 4

FOOD OR FIGHTERS?

N.Z. WAR CONTRIBUTION British Press Delegates’ Views P.A. AUCKLAND, Nov. 29. bir Walter Layton, leader ot the British newspaper proprietors delegation, discussing his impressions of conditions in the Dominion, after a week's tour, said: "New .Zealand has a very difficult decision to make regarding manpower. > New Zealand is a base for conducting war in tne Pacific area, while, at the same time, it is being called upon to help to relieve great food supply problems of the United Nations, particularly Britain. The position in Britain is rar from easy) regarding the supply of meat. New Zealand is specially wellequipped for production of meat and other agricultural foodstuffs. It bebecomes a question whether its part in a united war effort can be better fulfilled in food production or in endeavouring to maintain divisions in Europe. ’Men of the New Zealand Middle East Division have done so magnificently and, are so highly skilled in war that it would seem almost a waste to recall one single man. It is obvious that New Zealand is intimately concerned in the war in me Pacific. But it seems that it has not enough manpower for the three tasks which it has set itself—that is, the production of foods and the maintenance of two divisions in different and separate war theatres. Facts, as presented to us, show that New Zealand has mobilised for war as high a percentage of its manpower as Britain itself. The decision that is facing New Zealand must be taken, not only in the light of manpower, but of the question of diverting men from the armed forces to food production. This question is wrapped up with the country’s capacity to produce, and the amount of fertiliser available. Recognising New Zealand’s difficulties in making a decision, I would say! that it must be taken through consultation with the central direction of the United Nations’ war effort. One thing can be recognised, namely, that the function of New Zealand as a supplier of certain types of food is irreplaceable, whereas the gradual replacement of New Zealand men withdrawn from the Armed Forces of the United Nations is possible. Mr. Samuel Storey said that there was grave doubt whether Britain would be able to maintain her meagre meat ration of one pound weekly, per person. All would be very grateful to New Zealand for whatever help she could give. The delegation agreed that there was less evidence in New Zealand of food restrictions than they had seen jn Australia. Regarding post-war emigration from Britain to New Zealand, they advised planning without delay; to determine what population the Dominion desired. They considered that priority should be given to British stock. It was doubtful, however, if there would be any surplus of populaj tion in Britain after the war, they i said.