BUSINESS MEN’S PROTEST

Southland Times, Issue 24300, 4 December 1940, Page 6

BUSINESS MEN’S PROTEST

Extension Of Camp

Period

TELEGRAM TO MINISTER OF DEFENCE Concern at the announcement made yesterday by the Minister of Defence, the Hon. F. Jones, that the men now in territorial camps are to disperse on December 28 instead of on December 21, which was generally understood to have been the date originally arranged, was expressed at a meeting of Invercargill business men yesterday. It was pointed out that many firms which had employees in camp had fully expected that they would be back in time to assist with the Christmas rush, and that but for that understanding appeals might have been lodged .in some cases to have the period of training postponed. The two busiest days before Christmas, it was stated, would be December 23 and 24, and if the men left camp on December 21 they would be available to assist on those days. It was decided to send the following telegram to Mi- Jones: —“Business houses are very concerned about the extension of territorial camps to December 28. Unless there is some very special reason for the extension, we would suggest reverting to the original date for the break-up. The boys and parents would appreciate Christmas at home. Business people are placed in a difficult position, due to the Christmas rush. Applications for exemption were not made when the boys entered camp because it was generally understood that the camp would not continue past December 21. We trust you can relieve the situation.”

It was stated that one firm had sent a telegram to Mr W. M. C. Denham, M.P., who replied that he had interviewed the Minister of Defence, who had promised to consider the request. It was also reported that the Invercargill Chamber of Commerce had asked the Associated Chambers of Commerce to take up the matter with the authorities.

The Press Association telegram announcing the decision was as follows:— All troops now in camp will disperse on December 28, according to a statement made by the Minister of Defence (the Hon. F. Jones) in reply to a point raised by a correspondent in a Wellington newspaper. This, the Minister points out, will allow the men to reach their homes for the usual family reunions that take place during the Christmas and New Year seasons.

The Minister pointed out that the units of the Territorial Force now under training in camp were called up for three months from October 1 and therefore should remain in camp until December 31. If they were released from the camps before Christmas, the training period would be foreshortened and this would adversely affect the progressive training programme which culminates in brigade training. However, it has now been decided that all troops will disperse from camps on December 28.

The Minister also announced that arrangements had been made which, it was expected, would enable the medical examination of the majority of men receiving invalids’ benefits or war disablement pensions who were called up in a ballot to be dispensed with. A special medical board would examine the files of such men and, except in special cases, their fitness for military service will be determined without their being examined. Pensioners who had not already been examined should advise the Army if called for service.