LOCAL SCOTTISH UNITS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22819, 28 August 1937, Page 17

LOCAL SCOTTISH UNITS

Sir, —About 18 months ago you pub- ] lished a letter from me advocating the ! formation of a Scottish territorial unit. Later I wrote to the defence headquarters, Wellington, and received a courteous reply saying that from time to time organisations in tho South Island had put forward tho same suggestion, but that it had been decided* to "do nothing at present." At this time, when tho whole defence system is being reorganised (with tho issue of "more attractive uniforms" under consideration) and when Scottish societies are growing in number and vigour on all sides, it may bo worth while trying again. To recapitulate, I pointed out that in many volunteer forces the Scottish form the "corps d'elite" of the infantry, notably in Calcutta and Shanghai. Canada had a number iof regiments in the Great War, and the 3rd South Africans wore the kilt with distinction. I understand that now Capetown has its Highlanders, and New South Wales has a battalion with a waiting list, in spite of a £2 entrance fee. Why should New Zealand Scots lag behind in this respect? No expensive tartan is needed, as a heather mixture (on tho lines of the Hodden grey of the London Scottish) can be woven locally. The existing tunic would serve when cut away in front, a half-apron would do in lieu of sporran, and hosetops worn with boots and ankle puttees. The only additional item would be a bonnet which, if of tho service tam variety, could also be mado here. I suggest tho formation of a company in each of the four main centres, to"either amalgamate to form a battalion in case of war, or to form nuclei for local battalions. Surely with all our Scottish background this thing is worth doing? Aberdonlvn.