DEFENCE OF THE PACIFIC.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 3714, 27 December 1912, Page 5

DEFENCE OF THE PACIFIC.

“FOR NEW ZEALAND TO DECIDE.” [UNITED PRESS ASSOCIATION —COPYRIGHT] (Received Dec. 25, 9.25 p.m.) AIELBOURNE, Dec. 25. Air. Allen (N.Z. Defence Minister) conferred with the inembers of tho Commonwealth Defence Council in regard to a naval policy for.the Pacific. Air. Pearce (Federal Defence Alinister) stated that the proceedings were confined to informing Air. Allen as to what the Commonwealth is doing. Mr. Allen evinced the most friendly feeling for Australia, and stated that he approached the question with an open, sympathetic mind. Air. Pearce thought that as a result of’Air. Allen’s visits to the Commonwealth and England he would form some valuable opinions in regard to defence, and added that the outlook can be described as hopeful. Air. Fisher (Federal Premier) said there was never any antagonism in Imperial Defence Conferences to the idea of joint action bv the dominions of the South Pacific. It was really a matter for New Zealand to decide. Air. Allen’s mission was one of inquiry only. Air Fisher expressed appreciation of Air Allen’s visit and said : "We in Australia should benefit greatly by the opportunity of conversing with New Zealand Ministers. This enables ns to learn their views first hand upon important questions affecting the interests of the Dominion and Commonwealth an.l w- may convey our opinions similarly to them.”