THE CONSCRIPTION CAMPAIGN.

Wanganui Herald, Volume L, Issue 14746, 27 October 1915, Page 3

THE CONSCRIPTION CAMPAIGN.

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE QUESTION. LONDON, October 26. Messrs Hobhouse, Allen,'and Whitehouse, on behalf of anti-conscription-ist Commoners, have issued a manifesto of their reasons for the belief thpt conscription would be disastrous to the successful prosecution of the war. It. would destroy the basis of national unity. Britain has five duties in tho war: the maintaining of an impregnable and inviolable Navy, manufacturing munitions for herself and her Allies, financing-the Allies, financing the Dominions, and raising and maintaining an army running into millions. Wo had already suddenly withdrawn something lika three inilbo i men from the industries in Britain for an indefinite period. An increase would entail a heavy increase in expenditure and would hamper the Allies’ cause bv reducing our capacity to assist them. The mere attempt to introduce conscription would have the gravest consequences and would destroy national unity. Organised industries are determined to resist. The three greatest labour bodies are prepared for corporate action. The war, even if prolonged through lack of conscription, must bo won by our financial industries and strength. We must remember tho deep suspicions attaching to some of the influences behind the conscription campaign, also Ireland’s opposition.