AUSTRALIA’S DRAMATIC CHANGE OF POLICY

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLV, Issue 21308, 30 March 1939, Page 6

AUSTRALIA’S DRAMATIC CHANGE OF POLICY

Australia s dramatic decision to introduce a compulsory register of man power taken in conjunction with the revelation that the Commonwealth authorities have completed plans for the construction of aircraft on a large scale, reveals something of the urgency of the problem of defence. It is moreover, significant that the introduction Of a compulsory register represents a change of policy, since it has been considered up to the present, that the voluntary principle should apply. Obviously the rapid deterioration of the international situation in general, and the growing menace of Japan’s expansionist activities, have forced the Australian leaders to take a serious view of the menace confronting the Commonwealth in relation to defence. The danger to Australia and New Zealand, too, is that Britain might become involved in a conflict in Europe at. a moment when Japan decided to make a drive into the Southern Pacific, Hence the almost feverish defence preparations in Australia, in contrast to the easy going attitude of New Zealand.