RETENTION OF OLD METHODS

Southland Times, Issue 24829, 22 August 1942, Page 5

RETENTION OF OLD METHODS

MR (Rec. 6.30 p.m.) LONDON, August 20. The New Zealand Minister to Washington, the Hon. W. Nash, on the eve of leaving for America, paid a tribute to the spirit of the United Kingdom, also to the thoroughness of most of die executives and administrators. . with whom he had consulted. He criticized what he termed the policy of minimum interference with pre-war channels and methods of production, distribution and trade, also with custom and tradition. “I was struck by the apparent determination of some influential sections not to interfere unduly with ordinary business,” he said. “This policy seems to be: ‘Don’t touch existing channels or, if it is essential to interfere with them, then provide facilities for their maintenance and survival.’ We are probably paying a heavy price for this and we will pay a more dangerous price later unless the policy is altered.” Mr Nash said the enemy was not spending limited resources in maintaining old channels and methods. He was all out to win in the shortest time by the quickest route. We had to adopt channels most likely to yield results, irrespective of the effect on our old ways of life and business. Mr Nash added that Mr Churchill was the outstanding figure in the United Kingdom, but there were also others able and competent to guide, lead and control this or any other country. They were as far-sighted and able as administrators elsewhere. Mr Nash also commented on the “thoroughness of the preparations to ensure an effective offensive operation as soon as the time is ripe.” The Times, in a leading article, pays a tribute to Mr Nash’s work and welcomes his friendly criticism, which, The Times says, will not be misunderstood. Indeed, it is likely to be useful. The Times admits that it does not seem likely that the distributive trades, for instance, will resume after the war where they left off before the war. The war effort must not be handicapped to maintain machinery which may or may not be needed when the peace is won, but few tilings are more wasteful than to throw knowledge and experience on the scrap heap.