AUSTRALIA AND THE SUPPLY OF MUNITIONS

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2487, 14 June 1915, Page 7

AUSTRALIA AND THE SUPPLY OF MUNITIONS

non-party committee PROPOSED Melbourne, June 12. In the Federal House of Representatives, replying to a suggestion tliat a non-party war preparation committee to act with tbe Minister of Defence in investigating and securing a more effective supply of munitions would inspire greater confidence than tho present party system, Mr. Fisher (Prime. Minister) said no party interests had been introduced into tho conduct of the war. The Ministry was -willing to accept" the advice of anyone in order to bring the war to an early and successful issue, but, viewing the position in the most patriotic spirit, the Government felt that it would not be in the best interests of the country to share the responsibility for 'administrative Acts necessary for the effective carrying out of its policy. Asked if the reported visit of Sir Robert Borden (Canadian Prime Minister) to England to consult tbe British Cabinet over war problems was part of a concerted action by the Dominions, Mr. Fisher, in the House of Representatives, said there had been no negotiar tions with the Dominions for the purpose suggested. He thought it would not be wise. It was left entirely in the hands of the British Governments say what was best to protect the Empire and carry on the war. . CERTAIN DIFFICULTIES IN THE WAY. • Melbourne, June 12. At present there are difficulties in the way of making certain classes of munitions, but Senator Pearce (Minister of Defence) states that as soon as practicable the Government will utilise the resources of tho Commonwealth to the very utmost. PATRIOTIC METAL COMPANIES. Sydney, June 12. The Mount Morgan and Electrolytic Smelting Companies have decided to place the wholo of their resources at the services of the nation at the shortest possible notice. SECRET CARGO IN A GERMAN LINER WHICH SAILED ON JULY 24 LAST . (Rec. June 12, 3.30 p.m.) Rome, June 12. The German liner Bayern, which left Hamburg on July 24 last, for the Far East, was interned at Naples in August last, and the cargo has been landed this week. The authorities are confiscating a number of guns, machine guns, and aeroplanes which were not declared on the bill of lading. The Bayern's guns and aeroplanes tad been hidden. (Rfic. June 13, 4 p.m.) London, June 12. According to some correspondents, the Bayern left Hamburg twenty-five days before Austria's declaration of war with Soma.