AUSTRALIA'S CO-OPERATION

New Zealand Herald, Volume 79, Issue 24244, 9 April 1942, Page 6

AUSTRALIA'S CO-OPERATION

According to an authoritative pronouncement from Melbourne, it would be unthinkable for Australia, if New Zealand were attacked, to withhold the maximum assistance involving the use of any reinforcements this Dominion might require. No doubt this statement is made partly because of the provisions of the Commonwealth's Defence Act restricting compulsory military service to Australian territory—provisions which very late in the day are, to be amended. The disturbing aspect of the statement is the apparent looseness revealed of arrangements between Australia and NeM{ Zealand for their mutual defence. From time to time New Zealand Ministers have gone to Australia and have professed themselves well pleased with the result of their conferences. Have definite and detailed arrangements been made for Australian support if this Dominion should be first invaded? If General Mac Arthur w'tfre in supreme command of both Australia and New Zealand the question could be easily answered. But unfortunately no official assurance has yet been given that the General controls the disposition of both Australian and New Zealand forces. There can be only one strategy in the South-west Pacific: there should be only one commander. The Australian pronouncement draws attention to another point: the need for continuous and adequate representation of New Zealand at Canberra. The Dominion should be represented by a High Commissioner, preferably a Minister who* would retain his Cabinet rank. At the same time he should be accompanied by a staff from the three Services maintaining a close liaison with General Mac Arthur. Australia and NevV Zealand cannot afford to tread separate paths.