THE RECRUITING QUESTION

New Zealand Times, Volume XLI, Issue 9257, 26 January 1916, Page 2

THE RECRUITING QUESTION

To the Editor "N.Z. Times.”

Sir,—Of late there has been a great deal of discussion on the above question, and your correspondents h%ve displayed considerable oomniou-sanee in the presenting of their views to the public with the ultimate - end of gaining their invaluable assistance in luring th© unwilling youth into khaki. Of. the many warp suggested to gain this definable consummation, the* most prominent, if not the most- important, was the mobilisation of wealth. - • Whilst perhaps not having a direct bearing on the question under discussion,, it will nevertheless receive serious eonsideration in the near future should the war continue. 'lor it is evident to the average observer that the wealth of this country is being expended more on sport and the trivial affaire of everyday life than on the various societies connected with’ ths : war. Totalizator returns show big increase on other seasons, so it is apparent that our young men regard the great issues at stake as naltry when compared to the more exciting scenes of tl-e racecourse. , ■ , One of the most prominent features ot the wharf labourers’ strike of a short time ago was the large number of moneved men who acted as special' police. The most prominent feature of the present conflict is the small number who have enlisted. . The justification tor ibis assertion is evidenced by a review of New Zealand’s "801 l of Honour.” How can we approach the question of recruiting without dealing a direct blow at capitalisation? ■ , . ... Labour is well represented in the trenches-, too well, in fact,, for our industries will suffer in consequence. For

the demand for shilled men in the various branches of industry will soon be in excess of the supply if the, war con-, tinues much longer. We have ample evidence to assume that the wealthy eligible men of this country are disinclined to believe that the pressure of the times demands sacrifice. so there should be no hesitation in educating them to the fact, and the seizing of theix property should be the alternative of their unwillingness to fight. It has been be'iore asked, Should one man offer ell to his country, his life if needs be. while another remains in idle luxury , and does nothing? We are fighting an unscrupulous enemy, who is using unscrupulous means to gain an equEdlv unscrupulous end, and if we are not armed at all points our hope of a lasting and honourable peace will soon be replaced by a realisation of dictatorial Germanism. —I am, ©to., C. B. BAEBETT. C Company. 3rd N.Z.8.8., Bangiotn.