EMPIRE DEFENCE POLICY

Press, Volume LXXI, Issue 21411, 1 March 1935, Page 12

EMPIRE DEFENCE POLICY

Praise for Volunteer System ADMIRAL INTERVIEWED AT AUCKLAND [THE PEESS Special Service.] AUCKLAND, February 28. "There is no doubt that the present British Cabinet is determined to put us in a position to meet our obligations concerning the defence of the Empire," was a statement made by Admiral Clement Greatorex, R.N. (retired), who is making a round trip on the Tamaroa, which arrived from Southampton to-day. "While I am not in a definite position to give an opinion of things in England, as it is only those behind the scenes who know, I am sure we are reduced almost to a dangerous limit in our fleet, and will have to expand fast, unless other countries follow the lead we have given," the visitor continued.

"In England I feel there would be less complaint at taxation to put our fleet on a proper basis than were it for some other purpose," said Admiral Greatorex. Referring to the New Zealand division of the Royal Navy, Admiral Greatorex considered that if more interest could be encouraged in the volunteer system, it would be better for the Navy as a whole. "On these lines you can do things economically and- form a nucleus for an emergency should one arise. I think both the Admiralty and those in charge in New Zealand will help you in every way," he said. The local knowledge that would be acquired by the officers and men would be most valuable in the event of assistance being sent from other stations. On the ground of expense, said the visitor, the Dominions could not be expected to build large fleets of their own. "Trust to the Home country. In the event of war breaking out what you can do is to build up a body of men who will form a nucleus. I think the lines you are working on at present are very satisfactory. You know that if you are attacked, support will come from Home and vou also know that the nation will not send a large fleet out here, if she thinks there is a chance of her being attacked at home," he concluded. Admiral Greatorex. who is accompanied by Mrs Greatorex and their two daughters, served as a nontenant in the Australian Squadron 40 years ago. He was stationed on H.M.S. Orlando, which used to visit New Zealand every vear for about a month at a time. Hi retired from the Royal Navy 12 years ago. His last command was of the reserve fleet at Portsmouth, of which H.M.S. Courageous, which has since been converted to an aeroolanc carrier, was the flagship. The admiral, who toured New Zealand only last year, said he had been so impressed with the country and its ncople on that occasion that he had decided to make the trip again this vear. While the Tamaroa is in New Zealand waters he proposes spending some time in fishing at Lake Taupo and in the South Island.