Australian Premier’s Confident Appeal

Northern Advocate, 4 September 1939, Page 7

Australian Premier’s Confident Appeal

SYDNEY, September 3.

The Prime Minister of Australia, Mr Menzics, in a broadcast address from Melbourne tonight, following Mr Chamberlain’s broadcast from London, said;— “It is my melancholy duty to inform you that in consequence of the persistence of the invasion by Germany of Poland, and her refusal to withdraw her troops, Great Britain has declared war upon her; and as a result Australia is at war." He concluded: “We, as a mem-

ber of a great family of nations,

are new involved in a struggle

w hich we must, at all costs, win; which we believe we will win, “Truth is our companion on this journey, which may be long and arduous, and truth must win. “In the bitter months to come, I appeal to you to observe calmness, resolution and confidence which more than ever are required.”

State of War Proclaimed

i A proclamation of the existence of a state of war was issued last night after the broadcast by the Prime Minister, Mr. R. G. Menzies. Special clearances must in future be obtained by ships leaving Australian ports. Fishing trawlers, however, are exempted. The declaration of war caused a sensation throughout the Commonwealth. Special editions of newspapers were issued as soon as confirmation had been received from, the Prime Minister’s broadcast at 9.15 p.m., which became the subject of solemn comment in all homes.

Local radio stations appealed to ratings of two warships to go aboard last night.