RECRUITING BOARD.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 11593, 11 January 1916, Page 5

RECRUITING BOARD.

THE FIRST MEETING. [From Oun Corresfon-dent.] WELLINGTON, January 10. The Recruiting Board, consisting of the Prime Minister, the Minister of Finance and tho Minister of Defence, held its first meeting on Saturday, but it does not appear to have made any very material progress with the great task it has taken in hand. It is understood that the draft of the new recruiting scheme has been prepared', and that it provides for smaller districts and tho employment of a number of amateur helpers. So far the country districts have been scarcely touched in the campaign for more men, but it is hoped the division of the Dominion into counties may result in a quickening of local enthusiasm and a much more satisfactory response to the Ministers' reiterated appeals. Oho of the difficulties in the way of the board is the confidential nature of the information supplied for the national register. This" information cannot, of course, be distributed' broadcast throughout the country, and yet without having it in their possession tho local committees will scarcely know how to proceed. The idea is that each of these committees should make a personal appeal to every man of military age in its districts, and that where difficulties concerning employment or dependents exist it should do its best to removo them. It is hoped that.by these means the remaining reinforcements may he assured of their full complements, and' the talk of conscription silenced.