NATIVE TROOPS

Hokitika Guardian, 15 October 1936, Page 2

NATIVE TROOPS

SOU'l H AFRICAN PROPOSAL

NOT LIKELY TO BEAR FRUIT

DURBAN, October 12. “That the Government he reuestocl to undertake the training of

native soldiers for tlie defence of South Africa against a foreign aggressor,” will he a resolution moved by a native councillor at the Ciskeian General Council. Another native member will propose. ‘‘That the Governmet be requested to provide facilities for the introduction and enforcement of an elementary course in military training for youths in native schools. ’ Coming from native spokesmen, these recommendations have created surprise. They will undoubtedly provoke an interesting discussion, ‘but that is about as far a s they will get. Even if the council should adopt the resolutions. there would be little likelihood that the plea would be heard. Even in face of the potential menace of black armies in Abyssim a and French and Spanish Morocco, the Unioii Government would think a long time liefore militarising its own natives. It ha s been emphasised, however, that in the event of foreign aggression the presence in South Africa of smart, well-disciplined and thoroughly trained native regiments, efficiently officered by picked white men, would be a force for the consolidation and homo genu tv of the Smith African peoples. Such regiments, giving voluntary service to the ! State, would bo a sign to the world of the natives’ willing association with the Government.