STERN REALITIES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVIII, Issue 23928, 31 March 1941, Page 6

STERN REALITIES

POSITION MUST BE FACED PRIME MINISTER'S REMARKS [by telecrafh— press association] WELLINGTON, Saturday _ "We must face up to the stern realities of the situation and with the conviction not merely on our lips but in our hearts and souls that whatever the hardship, whatever the loss, whatever the sweat and blood" and tears, the cause is worthy; with the conviction that any difficulties we may have to face are but dust in the balance compared with the fact that as part of the army of freedom we can contribute something to' the salvation of mankind and the overthrow of tyranny." Witii these words the Prime Minister, the Bt. Hon. P. Fraser, concluded" his address at the annual dinner of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Fraser referred to the fine example set hv the people of Britain and also expressed the general feeling of gratitude to the people of the United States for turning their country into an arsenal for democracy. . Speaking of New Zealand's problems, Mr. Fraser said: "If I could say to-day that it was likely there would be an casing of import control and petrol rationing none would be more delighted than 1, but we are facing a graver situation than ever in the past." Referring to raw materials and shipping difficulties, he said: "There are difficulties even in obtaining fulfilment of orders placed. The situation is so grave that even some of the reduced number of ships available have to come out in ballast."