N Z. TROOPS IN JAPAN

Wanganui Chronicle, 6 May 1947, Page 5

N Z. TROOPS IN JAPAN

ARRANGEMENTS BEING MADE FOR THEIR RETURN (P.A.) Dunedin, May 5. “Negotiations are at present taking place between the Government and the British Ministry of Shipping for a ship to bring home from Japan the New Zealand members of the Occupation Force due for replacement, and to transport a relief draft from the Dominion,” said the Minister of Defence (Mr. Jones) to-day. “It is hoped that an early statement will be made as to when the first of the troops will return from Japan." Mr. Jones added that although it had been decided to reduce the strength of the J-Force to 2000, recruiting for the force would still be carried out. About 400 men had decided to remain in Japan instead of returning home, and it was expected that a full complement of 2000 would be obtainea in New Zealand from enlistments. Although the health of the troops in Japan was good, wastages of personnel through s’Jkness in New Zealand and in Japan had to be provided against. The Minister said that the Maoiis had made a great response to the recruiting campaign, and it had been decided to increase the representation of Maoris over the number already serving with the J-Force. He added that the decision to reduce establishment of the force had, in some measure, been due to the fact that the demolition work which was being done by the New Zealand section of the British Commonwealth Occupation Forces had almost been completed.