"Conscription if necessary, but not necessarily conscription"

This quote by William Lyon Mackenzie King is a reflection of his position on conscription during World War II. He was a Canadian Prime Minister and was against conscription, however he likewise understood that it might be needed in specific scenarios. He was attempting to communicate that conscription needs to only be used as a last option, and not as a first alternative. He wanted to make sure that the Canadian people had a say in the matter, and that their voices were heard. He wanted to ensure that conscription was not utilized as a tool to force individuals into service, however rather as a way to ensure that the nation had adequate soldiers to eliminate in the war. He wanted to make sure that the Canadian people had a choice in the matter, which their opinions were respected. This quote shows his commitment to democracy and his belief that the people ought to have a say in the choices that affect them.