DEFENCE FORCE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 74, Issue 147, 24 June 1931, Page 6

DEFENCE FORCE

VOLUNTARY SYSTEM. ENTH USIASTI C RESPON BF.. (Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, June 23. The Minister of Defence advises that since the decision of the Government to embody the territorial force, on a voluntary'basis and to commence military training, the Defence Department has been occupied in making the necessary preparations for the inauguration of the now scheme. In order to make known the provisions of the scheme to all concerned and to enlist the aid and good will of the, public, the general officer commanding, accompanied by the Under-Secretary of Defence and an officer of the general staff, has just concluded a tour embracing the chief centres. The G.O.C. has reported to the. Minister that very remarkable interest and enthusiasm was displayed in each place visited, auguring well for the sue. cess of the scheme. Arrangements arc so far forward, the Minister states, that it is expected to commence recruiting in the course ot the next few days. The Government hopes that employers generally win place no obstacle in the way of allowing such of their employees as so desire to join up and attend the P^ r ’ bctl training courses and camps. Ino Government- would encourage its employees to enlist and would afford every reasonable facility for them to carry out the obligations which enlistment in the force entailed