MEMORIES OF THE ANZACS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23830, 9 June 1939, Page 13

MEMORIES OF THE ANZACS

"MAGNIFICENT FIGHTING MEN” BUT NOT SOLDIERS (From Our Own Correspondent) LONDON. May 11. - A reference to the Anzacs at Suvla Bay was made by Mr Wedgwood Benn. M.P.. during the debate in the House of Commons on the Military Training Bill. In leading the Opposition’s arguments against the introduction of conscription, Mr Benn said that he remembered the Anzacs at Suvla Bay. splendid fellows, very hard-working. Certainly they were not very respectful. (Laughter.) They called him “ Cocky,” and he had two pips on his shoulder straps —(laughter); but how they worked, made roads, and piers, and fought! He would never forget what his old general, now with God, said about them. The general said: “They are magnificent fighting men. but you will never turn them into soldiers.” (Opposition cheers and laughter.) Sir E. Grigg (Altrincham, U.); Has the right hon. gentleman forgotten that the Anzacs were the product of compulsory military service? Mr Wedgwood Benn: I have not forgotten that the Australian Government polled the Anzacs. who were volunteers, and the majority voted against conscription. Mr Benn won the D.S.O. and the D.F.C. during the war, serving in the Yeomanry and Air Force, His other decorations include the Croix de Guerre and the Italian Bronze Valour Medal.