BRITAIN'S HONOUR

Waikato Times, Volume 93, Issue 14521, 19 November 1920, Page 5

BRITAIN'S HONOUR

PLEDGED TO HER SOLDIERS.

MUST BE REDEEMED.

APPEAL FOR EX-SERVICE MEN.

(Australian and N.Z. Cable Assn.)

Received November 18, 5.5 p.m. LONDON, November 17

Field-Marshal Earl Haig made a feeling speech before the Council of the Farmers' Union on behalf of ex-ser-vice men. He said that the men were induced to enlist by means of promises that they would be looked after when the war was over. At the same time money was raised and dividends paid thereon. What would be said if the loans were repudiated or the dividends withheld? He could not see the difference between that and the treatment accorded to the men who had fought. Apparently it was no longer true that Britain's word was her bond. Directors said they were not justified in donating t'he shareholders' money to his fund. They did not understand that they existed only through the efforts of the ex-service men. It would be a blot on the nation's honour if these fine men were condemned to remain in the unskilled ranks. The Government, the employers, and the unions ought to make a combined effort. The Officers' Association was spending £9OOO monthly more than it received.