WAR COUNCIL MEETS

Waikato Times, Volume 130, Issue 21689, 27 March 1942, Page 2

WAR COUNCIL MEETS

MORE ESSENTIAL INDUSTRIES (By Telegraph.—Press Association) WELLINGTON, Thursday The War Council met today to consider reports which had been submitted by the Defence and Military Affairs Committee and the Primary and Secondary Industrial g Committees, both of which met earlier in the week. The Prime Minister stated that the council was informed of the discussions whicn had been proceeding regarding the formation of a Pacific War Council in Washington and the machinery which was being developed for the higher direction of the war in all theatres. A full statement was given to the council showing the munitions and supplies which had been received, the advances that had been made in defence preparations in New Zealand, and the position of our forces in various theatres overseas. Recommendations had been submitted by the council to the War Cabinet on the steps necessary to meet the manpower requirements of the armed forces, the improvement of communications to meet tactical needs, on service by aliens, daylignt ! saving and measures to be taken to control the entry of workers into I non-essential industries. I Proposals had been made that I certain important industries should be added to the schedule of essential industries. Mr Fraser paid a high tribute to the valuable service rendered by members of the council. ASSURANCES FROM OVERSEAS WELLINGTON, Thursday “Within the last few days I have received messages from Mr Churchill and from President Roosevelt in reference to New Zealand’s pari in the war and the assistance which we require,” said the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. P. Fraser, in an interview tonight. “Both messages were highly satisfactory and indicate ihe great measure of support which is forthcoming to New Zealand.”