Pacifism

Northern Advocate, 25 May 1949, Page 4

Pacifism

Mr J. Mathison, Ml*, for Avon, said that all the Government ■yvanted was that the policy already provided in the statute book should be approved if it became necessary to use it. • The Minister of Labour . (Mr McLagan) said that the resolution meant that after all the circumstances were considered the Government would consult the people at a general election before bringing in conscription and, if the people wished, a referendum could be held.

He pointed out that Britain had made adaquate defence provisions, and asked if it were good enough for New Zealand to wait.

Hopes never averted a war, nor did Socialist ideals if other people believed in force. Pacifism was no defence against aggresion.

He felt that the majority wanted adaquate defence, even if compulsory service was necessary. Mr Hone Heke Rankin (Kaikohe) said that Northland Maoris stood behind Mr Fraser, and he committed them to the proposals. Mr C. Carr, M.P. for Timaru, said that Mr Grant’s amendment was tantamount to a vote of no-confidence in the Government.

Replying to the debate the Prime Minister said that the Government would trust the people, and if it was found that New Zealand’s resource? were inadequate without compulsory service, they would tell the people. In reply to Mr Lansstone. who had asked if youths who might be called on for service would be able to vote in a referendum, Mr Fraser replied that ordinary voters would have the vote. The conference later rejected a remit proposing that military training in secondary schools be abolished.