THE AUSTRALIAN FORCES

Ashburton Guardian, Volume VII, Issue 2253, 15 October 1889, Page 2

THE AUSTRALIAN FORCES

GENERAL EDWARDS' REPORT [BY BIifIOTBIO TBLSOBAPH— -OOPTBIOBT.] [PIR PRESS ASSOCIATION.] (Reoelved Oot. 15, 8.33 p.m.) Melbourne, Ootober 15. General Edwards' report is published. He considers that tbe Australian colonies offer a rich and tempting prize. If they had to rely on their own resources it is certain they would be called upon to fight for their independence, and withont cohesion and the power of combination their position would be one oi great danger. He recommends the federation of the military forces. To effeot this New South Wales and Victoria, should furnish three brigades each, South Aus* tralia and Queensland one eaoh. A Lieutenant-General should be appointed to inspect m time of peace and command m time of war. Theße brigades should bo so stationed as to protect the coast from Brisbane to Adelaide. He also recommends a system of partially paid forces. Provided tho conditions of service are as stringent as m Victoria*, this would give the colonies a force sufficient for present requirements. Tho most necessary thing is a uniform rail* way guage, as no general defenoe oan be undertaken unless distant points are conneoted by rail. Perth and Port iDarwin are a menace to Australia by reason of thoir isolation. The isolated position of Tasmania is still moro [dangerous. It might be necessary to send troops to defend it m time of war as I its numorous harbors and coal supply would be convenient for the enemy. Ho also recommends a uniform system of organisation and armament, a Common Defence Act, tho amalgamation of the I forces into fortress corps, with a federal military college, the extension of rifle clubs, a federal small-arms factory, a gun- | wharf and ordnance store. Looking at the state ot Europe he says the defences should at once be placed upon a proper footing.