WAR-TIME BRITAIN

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25239, 31 May 1943, Page 2

WAR-TIME BRITAIN

NEW ZEALANDERS IMPRESSED CONFIDENCE AND CALMNESS (N.Z.P.A. Special Correspondent) (Rec. 7 p.m.) LONDON, May 28. “ It has been a most strenuous tour,” said Mr L. G. Lowry when the Empire parliamentary delegation gave a press conference at the Ministry of Information on its return from the provinces. “It was most instructive, but I must confess that it will probably be many days before we are in a' position to gather our facts together and place them in their respective positions.” Mr Lowry said that many things had impressed him—first, the wonderfully calm demeanour of the people everywhere, and the confidence of the fighting forces. He expressed the opinion that the food services' were outstanding. A meal that they had had at a British restaurant was most enjoyable and reflected credit on the organisation. In the shipbuilding yards the riveters’ noise would be music in the ears of those desiring an early victory. In addition to of the forces, the work of the firemen and firewomen was outstanding. They had saved London from total destruction. They were remarkably efficient. Creches where children were cared for while parents worked would remain a happy memory, and so would the work of- the Civil Defence Regional Commissioners. “We shall carry back many memories," said Mr Lowry. “We have seen your scarred cities, and we have learned of your huge death rolls.” Mr W. P. Endean said they had been privileged to see Britain at battle, and her energy and efficiency maintained the highest traditions of the British race. Britain did not -know when she was beaten and had fought on, and now victory was in sight. We might get there sooner than we expected. After the war the people would be able to live their own lives in a free and unfettered way. Both Mr Lowry and Mr Endean paid a tribute to the magnificent work of the women, who were engaged in work from that of the most delicate nature to the heaviest—from precision instruments to work in foundries. It was one of the most impressive things they had seen.