WAR CABINET

Hokitika Guardian, 16 July 1940, Page 5

WAR CABINET

FORMED IN N.Z.

STATEMENT BY HON. P. FRASER.

(Per Press Association —Copyright).

WELLINGTON, July 15

The announcement of a War Cabinet comprising Hons. Fraser, Nash, Jones, Hamilton and Coates, was made by Hon. P. Fraser to-day.

Mr Fraser said the War Cabinet’s full time task would bo to direct the war effort of New Zealand.

“A s the outcome of negotiations between the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition, a War Cabinet will be formed to control all New Zealand s war effort. This Cabinet,, will .consist of five members, three, from the Government* and two from the Opposition. All members will have full ministerial rank. In particular the function of the War Cabinet will bo to decide and direct those matters concerned with defence and military assistance to Britain production for war purposes, war financial requirements, and emergency regulations; so far as they apply to the war effort,-and tend to implement Parliament’s in relation to New participation in the war. The effect i;of 'this arrangement is that there will be two Cabinets directing the country’s affairs. A War Cabinet will control New Zealand’s war effort and its decisions will be conclusive. The General Cabinet will continue to function in the usual way, ill regard to all other matters, existing Ministers retaining their present portfolios.

The Prime Minister will be head of both Cabinets and of course retain his constitutional position in each.

Any action which necessary for the purpose of securing Governmental co-ordination, arising out of the virtual existence of two Cabinets will thus be taken by the Prime Minister in accordance Avith his constitutional position. .

As h a s been stated previously, the Government has‘'fnlly ; appreciated the necessity of a united effort- all the more urgent; because of developments of the, war situation in Europe. The formation of a War Cabinet •will give a' cbmplete opportunity' of unity of action in Avar matters by the two polit&Hl parties Avithout disturbing the existing arrangements in regard to the Govei-nfnent’s control of the countrvs affairs generally.

Mr Fraser' stated the' decision to form a'War Cabinet would ensure’the unity cf counsel and action, Avhich is so essential in the prosecution of the supreme" Avar effort 'required in support in Britain, and he Avas certain it would find an echo in the hearts of the people throughout the Dominion, as it should give all sections of the community confidence in the unity of Parliament and the country’s political leaders. Thi§ type of co-operative direction Avould meet effectively the needs of the difficult days ahead, and inspire all to '.unite selflessly in the common task to achieve victory.

With/regard to the War Council Mr Fraser said this body was already functioning and doing good work, and it would continue to function for the purposes for which it was set up.