I am sure it is a satisfaction to the
House, as it was to me, to find that before the discussion arose
yesterday not only had Lord Kitchener realized the difficulties, but
that he had taken every step possible to meet them, and that the step
which he did take was in the direction, which we all feel is a wise one,
of putting the responsibility on those at a distance from the War Office
and expecting them to bear it. Many of us have been asked to take part
in helping the recruiting. When I was asked to join in this I had in my
mind the feeling to which I gave expression the other day, that I was
not satisfied that too much sacrifice was not being required from those
who are going to fight our battles and that a full share of sacrifice
was being borne by those who remain behind. Nothing could be more unfair
than that this country should expect all the sacrifice to come from the
men who are actually going to risk their lives in our behalf. [Cheers.]
We know with what splendid spirit they are coming forward. I suppose
every member of the House could give instances that would surprise us
all. Perhaps it would interest the House if I give one. The son of a
friend of mine, who is well off, had been writing to the War Office,
taking every step to try to be accepted in order to fight.
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