THE ECONOMISING OF OUR RESOURCES.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 16544, 18 November 1915, Page 3

THE ECONOMISING OF OUR RESOURCES.

Sir, The national register lias been taken, but if we aro to get the full benefit, and do our part, to win this war, and survive in the still more desperate economic struggle and depression which must follow we must liavo universal compulsory service' not only to fill the firing line, but to keep going the necessary trades and services and increase our exports to the greatest extent, Ihe Government should decide which trades could be done without, and stop them one by one as men are wanted for the front or to nil the places of those who go, and to speed Tip production where it is most needed. It should give special attention to exports of agricultural products and of munitions of war that can be produced in New Zealand to advantage, while taking care to provide the bare .necessities of lifo for our own .people. Our capital should be husbanded by prohibiting ihe import of all unnecessary goods. It is only needed to mention motor cars, millinery, jewellery, drink, and tobacco, to see how much can bo done to get over the financial difficulties. If tobacco is claimed as a necessity, prisoners could be used to grow it in New Zealand. The quality of local tobacco would bo good enough for those who would not do without for their country's sake. For those who shirk a short rope and a long shift! If the above principles were enforced it would free a lot of men who would like to go to the front. —I am, etc., CIiUTHA.