C.O.A.C.

Northern Advocate, 15 November 1940, Page 4

C.O.A.C.

THERE has come.into our possession a. precious document. It was received by a AVhangarei returned soldier who was called up in the second ballot for territorial service. Typewritten on a small strip of paper, it reads: “The Conscientious Objectors’ Advisory Committee is willing to help in every way possible all who desire information concerning the provisions relating to conscientious objection to military service.”

Then follow the address of the committee and the names of three individuals, one a “Rev.,” another a “Mrs.” and the third a plain “Mr.” There has apparently occurred dissension in the camp of this committee, for the name of another “Rev.” has been struck out. The slip was posted in Wellington. While the members of the committee may be conscientious believers in the righteousness of the course they are pursuing, they need not be surprised if the people of the Dominion hold the opinion that they are acting in a mischievous manner. It is another illustration of the freedom enjoyed by British communities that such a document should have been allowed to pass through the post.

The AVhangarei man who received an unsealed envelope containing the slip of paper is unacquainted with the members of the C.0.A.C., and he is justifiably indignant that lie, a returned soldier, should have had such an insult addressed to him.

The receipt of the slip, however, indicates that all balloted men are being addressed in similar manner. This form of subversive activity should be put down with a firm hand. We believe it will be, for there are limits to British tolerance 'Of those who, intentionall3 r or unintentionally, are enemies within the gate.