THE HOME GUARD

New Zealand Herald, Volume 79, Issue 24234, 27 March 1942, Page 4

THE HOME GUARD

REMOVING DISCONTENT 1 FULL INVESTIGATION URGED CO-OPERATION AND ASSISTANCE (P.A.) CHRISTCHUKOH. Thursday A telegram was sent yesterday by the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. S. G. Holland, to the Prime Minister, strongly urging that a committee of inquiry be appointed immediately to investigate thoroughly the organisation, training and employment of the Home Guard. Mr. Holland said to-day that he had just returned from Auckland and several districts of the Waikato where he met leaders of the guard. Since his return to Christchurch he had been approached by two groups asking if something could be done to improve the position. "The representations cover a wide field, including training, equipment and the work to be done in an emergency," Mr. Holland said. "I realise there is considerable discontent and apprehension and accordingly made representations to the Prime Minister urging that the patter be made the subject of an exhaustive inquiry with a view to rectifying the position." The ' telegram sent to the Prime Minister says: "In view of widespread discontent which I observed in many parts of New Zealand concerning the treatment of the Home Guard I strongly urge that a committee of inquiry be immediately appointed to thoroughly investigate the organisation, equipment, training and employment of the Home Guard with a view to a great improvement being effected. The Home Guard consists of thousands of extraordinarily keen men anxious to render maximum service in the defence of New Zealand and they are entitled to the closest Government co-operation and assistance. At present Home Guardsmen feel, rightly or wrongly, that they have not been properly treated or used to the best advantage. This is most urgent and should be dealt with immediately."