NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE FORCES.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21102, 12 August 1930, Page 7

NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE FORCES.

ORGANISATION AND TRAINING. MAJOR-GENERAL YOUNG’S REPORT. (Fbom Our Parliamentary ‘ Reporter.) WELLINGTON, August 11. In March the Government decided, on the grounds of economy, that no further territorial units should go into camp during the current training year, says Majorgeneral R. Young, in the annual report on the defence forces of New Zealand., The report, which was tabled in Parliament to-day, contains no other. reference; to the Government’s defence economy plans. On the other hand Major-general Young says:—- “ I wish to bring to notice the -excellent spirit that exists in our. territorial force. I think. the general public does not realise the interest,' willingness, and effort that all ranks put-into their training, especially in camp. •- I cannot speak too highly of the behaviour and general bearing of the officers and. men. of our New Zealand Army. The standard of training reached during 1928-29 has been -maintained during the past year, and in view of the ever-increasing need for technical training in all arms of the service I am satisfied that the instruction given bas been' both efficient and thorough. Statements. have recently teen ‘made the effect that the organisation and training of the territorial force are obsolete and inefficient, and that no attention is paid to keeping' up-to-date' with modern My reply is that both oUr organisation and system of training are based upon those of the regular army at Home, with which very close touch is maintained, and that they are thoroughly in keeping with the most modern -ideas. 1 ‘should welcome' any investigation by qualified critics in these matters,”