GREATER WAR EFFORT

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVIII, Issue 23994, 18 June 1941, Page 6

GREATER WAR EFFORT

ACTION IN AUSTRALIA MANPOWER AND INDUSTRY MOBILISING ALL RESOURCES

Sweeping powers designed to increase every aspect of Australia's war effort both in volume and efficiency were outlined by the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr. R. G. Menzies, in a broadcast speech from Canberra last night. Mr. Menzies, who spoke of the serious nature of the Battle of the Atlantic and the issues behin d the Battle of the Middle East, told the people of Australia the Government's immediate intentions and future plans. More men will be made available for the armed forces and women will be offered greater opportunities to undertake war work. Greater expansion of munitions production is aimed at, involving restrictions on industries supplying civil needs, and further cuts in imports. There will be drastic restrictions on the use of petrol. The Government also plans the requisition of coastal shipping and the control of internal transport. The coal industry will be controlled by a commission and strikes, stoppages and lock-outs will be prohibited in war and allied industries. An assistant-Minister for civil defence services is to be appointed and powers will be sought to enlarge the Cabinet. "It is also proposed to set up an all-party committee on war profits.

"Let us fight as men confident of their cause and assured of victory, and also let us fight as men who know that victory must be the work of their own indomitable will and untiring hands, Mr. Menzies said in concluding his 49-minute address.