A CALL FOR EXEMPTION.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXXIII, Issue 16061, 16 October 1912, Page 12

A CALL FOR EXEMPTION.

TECHNICAL SCHOOLS AND DRILL. [From Otjr Correspondent.l WELLINGTON, October 15. Among the suggested exemptions from military training is that of young men who have to attend a technical school on drill nights. Tho Minister of Defence was urged to-night by Mr G. W. Russell to bring'into general operation an arrangement which ho understood had been adopted in Duncdin. The Hon James Allen, Minister of Defence, replied that he knew notliing of an arrangement, but lie would make

inquiries. Air G. M. Thomson informed the House that tho Technical School authorities had been able to secure exemption of pupils from night drills clashing with school attendances. Mr Russell remarked that it was a very desirable concession. A Christchurch Technical School pupil, ono of the most capable in tho school, had had to go to gaol because ho defaulted to attend classes.

Mr Pearce suggested that thero waf another argument against weekly drills Country boys had found this out al< ready, and lie was glad to see tho cities were affected. The country lads preferred more time in camp and fewer weekly drills. Tho Minister assured the House thatthis point was being met, tho camp being extended to thirteen days, and some of the periodical drills cut out.