Military call-up

Sir,—The National Party is now in its third term of office; does this qualify the Government to act without consulting the public that it represents?

Since the last general election, prices on consumer goods have been raised substantially, subsidies on household commodities removed and import restrictions increased. So far this year there has been a stop-work meeting by the Federation of Labour and a national railway strike. Does the Government consider these examples of public support of Government policy.

Last year the Government increased military aid to Vietnam. Our country is committed to defend the principles of democracy in Vietnam, but how is the Government supplying troops for this?

All youths of 20 years must register for military training and, if called up, complete this. Those who do so are considered as trained reserves.

Up till now overseas posting has been voluntary, but those who have had such military training are now advised to prepare for possible military service in Vietnam.

The Government has obviously exceeded its limits by: (a)Neglecting to formerly advise the public of this move; (b)Taking into its own hands to do so without public support.

The controversy that exists over the Vietnam issue is well known to the Government and reflects the diversity of public opinion. How can the Government bring in conscription with such an obvious lack of support? How long is the New Zealand public going to accept such dictatorial measures in a democracy?

Jonny Barber