Everything Being Done To Assist Common Cause

Northern Advocate, 13 May 1940, Page 3

Everything Being Done To Assist Common Cause

-PRIME MINISTER

[Per Press Association. Copyright.] WELLINGTON. This Day. Replying to a telegram from the president of the People’s- Movement (Mr E. R. Toop), suggesting the immediate summoning of Parliament, the Prime Minister (Mr Fraser) states: “While grateful for suggestions to improve New Zealand’s war effort, from whatever quarter they may come, and while repeating the assurance frequently given that all such suggestions. made in good faith and sincerity without ulterior motive, political or otherwise, will receive full consideration with a view to adopting whatever contained in them is practicable. I must point out the very grave danger of even well-intentioned people developing or inducing in others undue panic during serious developments in the war situation. Danger of Scaremongering “I am sure you will agree that anything in the nature of scaremongeiing at tins critical time would be more damaging than helpful to New Zealand’s war effort, and might even constitute a danger. “New Zealand’s war achievements up to the present in regard to naval, air force and army organisation fulfil the pledge given by the Government on behalf of the Dominion at the outbreak of the war that all the resources of the country would be placed at the disposal of the British Commonwealth and the cause of the Allies. “The question of the effective use of the manpower of the Dominion is at present engaging the competent attention of the Government and very capable representatives of various industries. Too Big for Rush Treatment “The question of production, which inolves the disposal of primary products overseas and shipping, is constantly under action. “Your suggestion regarding compulsory military and civil service, in which you no doubt intended to include the conscription of wealth, is obviously too big an issue to be determined in rush fashion. “It can be discussed by the representatives of the people in Parliament assembled in the light of all the facts, including the Government’s declared policy of voluntary enlistment. “Parliament is being called for a date in June, but, as previously announced, if the necessity arises, it can be called together earlier. Everything Being Done “At present everything possible is being done to assist the common cause of the Allies against a menace which, if not defated, will engulf the world. “The Government has already called upon many able citizens in all walks of life to assist in war work, and the response has been excellent. “This course will continue to be followed, and the best brains and experience available will be drawn upon. “Your expressed desire for national unity is most laudable and reassuring, particularly in view of recent political developments in the opposite direction, said to be associated with your organisation.

“Please accept my thanks for your kind suggestions of assistance at this time.”