THE NATIONAL RESERVE.

Colonist, Volume LVII, Issue 13778, 15 May 1915, Page 4

THE NATIONAL RESERVE.

MEETING AT TAPAWERA

A mooting of delegates from the various branches of the Farmers' Union of Kohatu, Motaipiko, Thorpe, Tadmor, and Tapawera was held at Tapawera yesterday afternoon, Mr H. Newport, of Korere. occupying the chair. The Hon. A. T. Maginnity, M.L.C., Mr T. A. H. Field, M.P. for Nelson, and Mr R. P. Hudson, M.P. for Alotueka, were present by invitation.

Various matters affecting the districts represented by the delegates were discussed.

The chairman called upon Mr Maginnity to-address the meeting upon the subject of the National Reserve Defence Corps. Mr Maginnity explained the objects of the movement, and the matter was taken up most enthusiastically by those present. Messrs Field and Hudson supported the arguments in favour of the National Reserve Corps being assisted by the Farmers' Union.

A resolution was unanimously passed, and Captain Faulkner, of the reserve of officers, and Mr George Macmahon were appointed a committee i*o take the initiatory steps towards the formation of a corps.

Mr Maginnity stated that the time had arrived when our individual responsibility must bo fully realised. The various branches of home defence must depend entirely upon their own actions, and they themselves, independently of Government assistance, must arrange all details and bear all expenditure connected with the undertaking. The idea was to relieve the Government of any responsibility in tho matter, but he thought he was safe in promising that the Government would as far as possible provide the neces^nry drill instructors' to assist in qualifying them in all preliminary requisites. Ho thought in the country districts ;i useful body of mounted men, with Tapawera for a centre, could readily bo formed. This view seemed to be supported by all those present. The members of Parliament were thanked for their attendance.