DISMISSED

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLVIII, Issue 21817, 21 November 1940, Page 4

DISMISSED

Watersider’s Appeal No Postponement Of Service By Telegraph—Press Association AUCKLAND, November 20. After hearing evidence called by the Crown, the Auckland Area Man-Power Committee to-night dismissed a personal appeal by an A class watersider, T. H. W. Wakefield, for a postponement of territorial service on the ground of public interest. An appeal based on the ground of hardship was withdrawn by the reservist himself. Before the beginning of the case a member of the committee, Mr W. J. Cuthbert, asked to be relieved temporarily of his duties as it was possible that he might be called to give evidence in the case. This was granted, and Mr Cuthbert’s place was taken by his deputy, Mr T. F. Anderson. Mr Cuthbert is wharf superintendent under the Waterside Control Commission. Wakefield, in evidence, said he had been engaged exclusively in waterside work for the last three years. He considered it was in the public interest that he should stay in his present work during the busy export season lasting until Easter or at least to the end of February. To a member of the committee he said if he went into camp his place could be filled only by outside labour. The secretary of the committee, Mr Harris, who appeared for the Crown, said it was a question as to where the man could better serve. There was no such thing as complete, total or permanent exemption, and he, with others, must at some time or other complete that training. "From the Crown’s point of view, subject to the evidence, there is no time like the present, as clearly the withdrawal of men for service overseas will tend to create future difficulties jf labour if not in appellant's then in other walks of life which are not present to-day to the degree that may later be expected. “This committee is not concerned, nor am I, with whatever decision may have been reached elsewhere on facts which only those who have heard the full evidence could determine as bearing a reasonable analogy or otherwise to the present case and itj facts,” he added. "I know the committee will bring to bear an open mind on the question and decide it as it should be decided, strictly on the evidence.” Captain C. V. Stanich, Auckland waterfront controller, said generally the supply of labour on the Auckland waterfront was ample.