MR. ALLEN'S TOUR.

Dominion, Volume 6, Issue 1750, 15 May 1913, Page 5

MR. ALLEN'S TOUR.

AT VANCOUVER. UNITY OF INTERESTS. ] By Telegraph—Press Association—CopyTighl Vancouver,.May 13. The Hon. James Allen, New Zealand Defence Minister, has arrived here. Civic and military officers, also cadets, greeted him. Interviewed, ho declared lie had been greatly impressed by his Canadian trip. Questioned regarding New Zealand's naval policy, he refused to outline it, bceauso hs must submit it first for the New Zealand Government's approval. He understood a permanent policy would bo drafted in conjunction with the Admiralty. ' Mr. Allen was entertained at -the Canadian Club. In a speech, he appealed to Canadians for assistance in' the defence of the Pacific in 'conjunction with Australia. As a Briton he would like to see a consolidated Einpiro strong enough to stand without, the Entente Cordiale. Not that he undervalued tho Entente. Undoubtedly, tho North Sea and tho Mediterranean were vital points in the Empire's defence, but the Pacific ought not to bo disregarded. It . was becoming increasingly important, and ought to be protected. The British Ministers had not fully realised tho now position arising in tho Pacific; they had not seen tho need for keeping the race pure, and keeping out unfair economic competition. New Zealand was desperately anxious to preserve her traditions, freedom, and privileges, and he appealed 'to Canada to aid in tlint object. Only by such union could anything of real benefit to the Empire bo achieved.