LIBERATION OF EAST INDIES

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 80, 29 June 1945, Page 5

LIBERATION OF EAST INDIES

HOLLAND’S FIRST TASK NEW GOVERNMENT’S POLICY OUTLINED Lond°n, June 27 The Dutch Government is determined to tackle as its first task the war against Japan and the liberation of the East Indies declared the Prime Minister, Professor Schermerhorn, broadcasting the first comprehensive outline of the policy of his new Government. The call-up for the services, training and equipping the Army, Air Force and Navy, would continue to determine a great many aspects of the people's lives. Professor Schermerhorn disclosed that the Allied military authorities would hand over most of the administration of Holland to the civil authorities by October 1 and thereafter would maintain only a few troops for supplying the armies occupying Germany. The Dutch Government was adamant that Germany must either return or replace goods and machinery looted from Holland. The Government planned to nationalise the Limburg coalmines and would investigate whether State control was necessary in other mines It was intended to organise industry in large comprehensive units in which workmen, employers and the Government were represented which, with the approval of a higher authority, would make binding arrangements concerning social and economic affairs.

Professor Schermerhorn visualised a far-reaching change in education in which a general reorganisation would be made. He expressed the determination that the Netherlands would regain its former leading place in commercial airlines. He promised a purge of Dutch Nazis. German collaborators and the press, also “purification of the police force." He concluded by announcing that the Government was hopeful of annexing a portion of Germany, but realised it must wait until the peace settlement.