HIGH IDEALS

New Zealand Times, Volume XLVII, Issue 10838, 2 March 1921, Page 5

HIGH IDEALS

EMPIRE’S EX-SOLDIERS BIG CONFERENCE OPENS AT CAPETOWN. TIGHTENING THE BOND. By Telegraph—Press Aesn.—Copyright Australian ai»i Z- Table Association* (Received Alarch 1, 5.5 p.m.) CAPKTOAVN, February 28. The Empire Conference of ex-servioe men opened at the City Hall. A message was read from the King declaring that he was sure that union of Empire warriors would strengthen the splendid spirit of fellowship evinced in ‘the war and give new life to the noble British ideals they fought so gallantly and. successfully to save. Lord Haig, in his speech, dwelt upon the common heritage all the parts represented, possessed in. _ the Empire. They were partners in a world-wide federation of nations _ owning the King as a symbol of unity. A “motion to form a British Empire league of ox-service men was adopted. A discussion followed on the basis of representation. Mr Dyett (Australian delegate) satid the Dominions should have one vote, not a vote for every ex-service organisation os suggested for South Africa, because the latter, unlike Australia, had failed, to link f»p with rival organisations. Mr Leadley (New Zealand delegate) considered Mr Dyett was making a mountain out of a molehill. # lt was not a question of South Africa outvoting Australia or New Zealand. They were there for each other's benefit. Ultimately it was agreed that Britain and a Dominion should have two votes each. (Beater's Telegram.*

(Received March 1, 7.30 p.m.) CAPETOWN, February 28. At the ex-service men's conference General Smuts said he hoped the conference' would help the Government® to deal with the welfare of soldiers. There was a true and honest desire by the Governments and the peoples erf all parts of the Empire to do their best to meet cases of hardship. * Lord Haig said that the bond which held ex-service men together should newer be loosened, but should be Banded. unbroken and unbreakable down to their children’s children. There should be a guarantee for all time throughout the wide Empire of the maintenance of the ideals for which they fought.