NATAL ESTIMATES

Hokitika Guardian, 5 February 1920, Page 1

NATAL ESTIMATES

A UTHOIUTIES UNCERTAIN. J ELLICOE’ S ADVICE. (By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.)

(Received this day at 8.40 a.m.) LONDON, February 3. The “Daily Express” naval cones, pondeut states certain forthcoming estimates do not provide for a new building programme. We are well supplied with ships of all classes for immediate needs 1 . Moreover, the experts have not completed an exhaustive examination of the war lessons. The most important question of policy arises in connection with the relationship with the Dominions. Advocates of air power will ridicule Admiral JelJicoo’s Australian and New Zealand schemes, but Jellicoe is only planning for the next five years wherein it is inconceivable that aircraft will completely supersede seagoing ships. The expense is the stumbling block, but we must still be prepared to continue until 1925, naval protection of commerce. 'Pbe shifting of the centre of naval gravity to the Indian and Pacific ocejis may result in the main squadrons abandoning British oven European waters. Jellicoe will be able to advise on this pressing financial problem. LONDON, February 3. Jellicoe, in an interview, said lie was impressed by the Dominion’s loyalty. They fuliy recognised if they maintained their own naval forces, it would be necessary to act in close cooperation with the Imperial Navy in the event of war.