BATTALION OFFERED

Waikato Times, Volume 126, Issue 21035, 10 February 1940, Page 8

BATTALION OFFERED

KEENNESS OF SCOTS ENLISTMENT AS BODY TERRITORIAL COMPANIES (By Telegraph.—press Association) WELLINGTON, Friday An offer to the Government to raise a Scottish battalion for oversea service was made today by Mr J. G. MacKenzie, on behalf of the New Zealand Scottish Territorial Association and the Wellington Association of Scots Societies. Mr MacKenzie is president of the Scottish Territorial Association and chairman of the Wellington Association of Scots Societies. He said the two bodies guaranteed the enlistment of men and the necessary reinforcements.

“Canada and other Dominions already have such battalions serving in France,” said Mr MacKenzie. “We have New Zealand Scottish territorial companies in the four centres and the men are keen to retain their identity and enlist as a body before further enlistments reduce their strength. Outside the four centres strong support for a New Zealand Scottish battalion is promised, for in provincial centres and country districts tradition and sentiment still count for much. This fact is recognised by the Imperial War Office. “The New Zealand Scottish territorial companies are at present a distinct asset to the Dominion and a New Zealand Scottish battalion should follow. The question of wearing the kilt does not enter into the question. All we ask is a Glengary cap and distinct hat and shoulder badges, such as the territorials have at present.” GISBORNE OFFICER COMMAND OF PIONEERS (Special to Times) GISBORNE, Friday In a letter from London, Colonel C. C. Dowding, of Gisborne, has advised relatives that he has been given a post in command of the Pioneer Battalion of the British Expeditionary -Force. His unit is training in the United Kingdom at present, but Colonel Dowding expected to be given orders for France in due course. Colonel and Mrs Dowding were spending a holiday in Britain when the war broke out. The former reported early in September to the War Office, offering his services in any capacity. Mrs Dowding is remaining in London meantime. TRIBUTE AT CAUCUS COLONEL J. HARGEST (By Telegraph.—Press Association) WELLINGTON, Friday The officer commanding the second echelon, Colonel J. Hargest, paid a short visit in uniform to the caucus of the National Party in Parliament Buildings today to say good-bye to his colleagues as an active Parliamentarian. He was very warmly received. In a brief speech, the Hon. A. Hamilton, Leader of the National Party, said his colleagues were very proud of him and the colours he wore. Colonel Hargest said he fully realised the responsibility of his position, and would give of his best to see that New Zealand would maintain the high record won in the last war.