PACIFIC WAR

New Zealand Herald, Volume 82, Issue 25211, 25 May 1945, Page 6

PACIFIC WAR

NEW ZEALAND'S PART DUTY TO THE ALLIES GOVERNMENT'S INTENTION (0.C.) * HAMILTON, Thursday "The decision as to what part New Zealand will play in the war against Japan will be made by the Government and not by anyone in London or Washington," said tlje acting-Prime Minister, Mr Nash, when addressing electors in the Frankton Town Hall tonight. The Government had sought the views of the combined Chiefs of Staff and would give full consideration to their advice. "The combined Chiefs of Staff have promised to report to the Prime Minister, Mr Eraser, giving their views on New Zealand's most effective role," Mr Nash added. "They will, of course, weigh up such factors as the numbers of fresh personnel, the relative value of New Zealand's possible contributions in the land, sea and air war against Japan, and the need for food production to feed Britain and Europe and the forces in the Pacific. "Not until this report has been considered will New Zealand be in a position to make a decision. In the meantime, arrangements are proceeding at an accelerated pace to bring back to New Zealand all long-service personnel." Mr Nash said there could he no question of New Zealand saying it had done enough and that it would leave its Allies to finish the Pacific war. tf New Zealand deserted its Allies now it could not expect them to help it if it was attacked by an aggressor in ten years' time. If it did not take its share in the fighting, he asked what influence it would have in determining the peace settlement for the Pacific. At present New Zealand, although a small nation, was playing a prominent part at the San Francisco Conference, due in part to Mr Fraser's personal qualities, but its views were also heard with respect because of the country's magnificent war record. New Zealand had come out of the war in better shape than any other country. It had suffered considerable losses in killed and wounded, but 011 a comparative basis it had suffered only 5J killed in every 1000 of population compared with 6} for the United Kingdom.