RESERVISTS COMPLAIN

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23591, 27 February 1940, Page 6

RESERVISTS COMPLAIN

TRAINING 'DIFFICULTIES * dearth of instructors MEN'S REQUEST TO MINISTER Keen disappointment at the treatment received since its establishment prior to the outbreak of war was expressed by about oO members of Class X. of the National Military Reserve following a parade at the Drill Hall last night. A resolution was carried asking the Minister of Defence, the Hon. F. Jones, to have the position of the reserve clarified and to consider steps which would make the parades more profitable to the trainees. Major C. P. Worley, officer commanding the Ist Battalion, Auckland Regiment, addressed the men on the position of the territorial forces and suggested that those who desired to continue training and were within the age limit should enrol with the regiment. " . In a general discussion ioi towing Major Worley's departure dissatisfaction was expressed at the lack of interest taken "in Class I. as a reserve unit. The lack of equipment anil the inability of the defence authorities to provide instructors were the chief points of criticism and a sub-committee was set up to bring the resolution under the notice of the Minister of Defence and to give an- outline of the difficulties undt r which the reserve has so far trained. Class I. of the National Military Reserve comprises men between the ages of 21 and 35 years who have completed two years' training in the territorials or other defence units of the Empire. #