SINGAPORE BASE

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XVII, 28 November 1927, Page 6

SINGAPORE BASE

NEW ZEALAND'S CONTRIBUTION. AMERICAN COMMENT. New York, Nov. 26. The “New York Times” editorially says: “The action of New Zealand in voting £1,000,000 towards the cost of the Singapore Base should not be regarded as an unfriendly gesture, directed against any Power or group of Powers bordering the Pacific. It merely bears witness to the loyalty of New Zealand to the Empire. Since New Zealanders and Australians alike regard Singapore as the rallying point of British interests in the Western Pacific, it is natural and proper that they prove their faith by works. “'Die close community of interests betwetn the dominions and United States has established a solidarity which not. even the blasts of Chicago’s Mayor can shake. Canada, New Zealand and Australia are pioneer countries, facing problems similar to those faced by America, peopled by kindred stocks and having similar forms of Government. They view the world more nearly eye to eye than do any other nations. “So long as the dominions form essential links in' the Empire they cannot remain aloof from Empire defence. Hence it is only fitting that they take a share of the cost of the defensive forces of the Empire, which, as the British delegates at the Geneva conference amply showed are essential for the protection of Britain's far-flung lines nf commerce and communication ” —(A. and N.Z.)