COMMON CAUSE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24491, 27 December 1940, Page 4

COMMON CAUSE

MAXIMUM.'"WAR EFFORT SUPPORT FOR SERVICEMEN MR HOLLAND'S APPEAL (Special to Daily Times) WELLINGTON, Dec. 26. " One's first thoughts. are for thos* brave men and. women who are, serving this country and the Empire overseas. From them we at home catch' the inspiration and the urge to render the utmost within our power by way of service, regardless of any sacrifices entailed," said the Leader of the Opposition, Mr S. G. Holland, in a Christmas message to the people of New Zealand. " Our men are ', upholding the glorious tradition of the race in this,-fight for the right of nations to live their own lives. The epic deeds of the navy, the magnificent' feats of our gallant airmen, the dogged determination of our soldiers, the indomitable spirit of the British people, the magnificent assistance of the United States of America when it is most needed—all these things inspire us to make greater efforts and entitle us to anticipate 1941 with confidence and optimism. Much-needed Help "With resolute calm we lived the early days of .1940: with fortitude, and courage our people witnessed the overthrow of our ally, and then the battle for Britain exposed the unconquerable spirit of true Britons till Christmas, 1940. when we rejoice at the turn of the tide and the abundant ievidence that, man for man. our men are more than a match for their enemies. " "Our capacity to render aid is, however, not limited to our thousands of fine soldiers, sailors, and airmen. In the field and in the factory, and in innumerable other'ways we can render much-needed help to the brave people ef Britain who need th«y foodstuffs and the materials we can produce in abundance. My New. Year message is. Let the measure of our contribution be in terms of.service and willing sacrifice rather than the terny and conditions on which ou*r service is rendered. Appreciation and Understanding "\To the mothers, wives and; families of our men overseas.l desire to send a special message of ' appreciation and understanding New ( 'Zealand is proud of its servicemen and . their exploits, but we are equally proud of these at home who watch and await the return of their loved ones. Let the rest of us fortify them in., the. knowledge .that we are all working harder and are nermitting nothing to stand in the way of a maximum contribution to the common cause. ' "May Christmas. 1941, find our boys united with their families once "again, victorious in the fight for justice, honour and liberty. I extend cordial greetings to the people cf New Zealand and pray that our great Empire may soon be delivered from the oppressor and that peace on earth and goodwill among all men will be achieved."