Second Edition. Imperial Defence.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 13 March 1911, Page 3

Second Edition. Imperial Defence.

IMPORTANT ADDRESS BY THE | PREMIER. "EMPIRE PARLIAMENT OF DEFENCE." A PARTNERSHIP IN PROTECTION. [BY ICI/ECTRIC TKIiEGRAI'H—COPYRIOHT-l [TKR PRESS aSSOOTATJOW/J SYDNEY, March 12. The Prime Misuser of New Zealand, Sir Joseph Ward, was banqueted by the New Zealand Association. In reply to a toasb ho made an important defence pronouncement. He was, lie said, impressed; with tho necessity for some great practical change in the system under winch the British Empire was governed and councilled in all the important questions of Empire defences. Personally, he placed the question of Empire defence as the most important question, to be dealt with at the Colnfcrenco. "The subject," said Sir .Joseph, "vitally Concerns every portion of tihta Empire and amongst others certainly young nations, such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Durilig the past twenty years thero liavo been striking a.nd remarkable developments in connection with defence matters. A question for consideration is whether the time has not arrived' for the consideration of an altered Imperial policy so as to ensure Hie permanent maintenance of the two power standard, which, with a view to the vast interests effected, must be protected. It is absolutely necessary. Great Britain in calling hor fleets nearer home, leaves the oversea dominions to some extent exposed. Canada, Australia and New Zealand, under their respective internal policies are doing their part in' the matter of providing a system of National land defence.