NAVAL DEFENCE OF THE PACIFIC

Dominion, Volume 13, Issue 28, 28 October 1919, Page 5

NAVAL DEFENCE OF THE PACIFIC

LORD JELLICOE'S REPORT

CRITICISM IN LONDON

(By Telegraph-Press Associatlon-CoDyrieht London, October 2L Tho opinion is expressed in Government circles Unit Lord Jellicoe's proposals are necessarily lengthy, and .t is considered that they will peril ips bo substantially modified in view of tlio present urgent demand for national economy to enable the Empire to regain something equivalent to the pre-war position. A well-known .Admiral says he is convinced that there is no possibility of a serious war for the next, ten years'. Britain's commitments will probably necessitate greater military than naval expenditure to provide oversea garrisons. While it is impossible to hope that die Navy Estimates will shrink to the prewar level miles." something in the nature of world-wide disarmament occurs, he argued, nevertheless, that Lord Jellicoe's scheme is premature. There was no reason for establishing a Far Eastern fleet larger than the Atlantic. The expense Attached to »neh n fleet would be stupendous, even if capital shins were maintained in reserve. Tlie Admiral pronountls the view that America is the only Power 'hat could hope to touch Britain at sou, and there is no question of any but. Ibe most friendly relations in (hat. quarter. Therefore what would it matter if America carried out a great building programme? Moreover, (he Dominions had lo consider the heavv cost of their share. Australian gunnery experts suggest that, as the requirements of Australia ami New Zealand ;.re purely defensive, it is doubtful -whether a fleet consisting of Inrge and costly ships is necessary. A simpler, more effective, and cheaper plan of defence would bs a numerous submarine fleet, and tho most modern forts with the highest-powered guns, including the best mcdrls of railway guns, the value of which was (lemons!rated on the battlefields of Franco. Strategic railways would be one of the most important factors in tho defenco scheme.—Aus.N.Z. Cable Assn. LOHD JKLLICOE AT HONOLULU. (Eee. October 27. 10.20 p.m.) ' Honolulu, October 21. _ Admiral Lord .lellicoe has arrived' Aeroplanes dropped flowers on tho warshin, which was Riven an enthusiastic reception.—Ecutcr.