Asks Government If N.Z. Troops Are Returning

Northern Advocate, 19 May 1943, Page 2

Asks Government If N.Z. Troops Are Returning

The altitude of the Northland Next-of-Kin Association regarding tlie return or otherwise of New Zealand troops in the Middle East was considered at the annual meeting in Whangarei when it was decided to seek information 'from the Government. The Mititai branch moved: “That a letter be sent to the Prime Minister protesting against cur soldiers being brought: back from the Middle East to fight in the South Pacific” and suggesting that the Prime Minister be asked if it were the intention of the Government to bring the men back from the Middle East.” Mr L. Cooke considered the remit a good one but said it was outside the association’s jurisdiction. The War Office controlled troops, and men were sent where they were most required.

i Mr Ait ken said the remit was the result; jof rumour that the Government, intended [to recall Dominion soldiers. Mr Bowers I considered the men themselves should say jif t hey were to be recalled. They volunteered to go wherever required, i Mr W. McConnell said the rank and file j would have little say He thought the remit should bo sent forward to the GovornIment The men should get adequate rest !as some have spent, three years overseas. [People were not supposed to criticise in this matter but they were justified in pointing the position out to the authori- ! t ies.

Mr Cook)' considered it would be better to write to the Prime Minister asking if it were the intention of the Government, to bring the soldiers back from the Middle East as rumoured. He moved an amendment in this direction and it was carried.