THE BRITISH NAVY.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2475, 14 April 1909, Page 5

THE BRITISH NAVY.

ADMIRALTY SYSTEM DEFENDED. INQUIRY INTO NAVAL AFFAIRS. United Press Association—Copyright LONDON, April 12. The “Times” publishes a long special article defending the existing Admiralty system and Sir John Fisher. Mr Asquith has promised to carefully consider a letter wherein Lieutenant Bellairs, a member of the House of Commons, and several Peers and memJ hers of the House of Commons suggest ( an inquiry into the scope and effects of changes in the navy during the last 40 years. They suggest that witnesses be guaranteed that their testimony will be treated as confidential, and not affecting their promotion. They urge that it is better to inquire before a crisis than after, as in the cae of the army after the Boer war. LORD CHARLES BERESFORD’S VIEWS. AN ALLEGED STATE PAPER. (Received April 13, D. 32 p.m.) LONDON, April 13. Tho '“Chronicle” states that Lord Charles Beresford sent to Mr. Asquith a State paper embodying his views on the defects in the navy and the conditions necessary to secure maritime supremacy. APPROVED BY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE CONFERENCE.. [Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, April 13. At the Chambers of Commerce Conference to-day, on the motion of Mr. D. J. Nathan (Wellington), _it was unanimously agreed “That this conference of the Chambers of Commerce of New Zealand approve of the Government’s offer to share in the defence of the Empire by presenting a Dreadnought to Great Britain; that we acknowledge- and record that the prosperity and maintenance, of our Empire can he upheld only by each and every portion of His Majesty’s dominions providing now, and in the future, for united defence; and that we are prepared to assist in establishing such a position.” Mr. Nathan said the time was fast approaching when the Empire would have to maintain the glorious heritage whic-h had been handed down to the present generation. England’s rights were maintained only by her predominance in naval affairs. It was the duty of Parliament to contribute its due quota to the upkeep the Imperial navy. Trade followed the flag. At home the cost of the navy was £1 per head. Here it wa.s 2s per head. Surely, lie said, we could afford to pay £1 per head ?