BRITISH FLEET.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 April 1924, Page 1

BRITISH FLEET.

UJBTRALIAN AND N.Z. CABLE ASSOCIATION.

SYDNEY, April 20

The British Squadron’* visit to Sydney practically ended last night, and the city will haul down its decorations and dressing of hunting which have keen in evidence since tho ships arrived. Favoured with lino weather, tho personnel had a busy time with social functions and sightseeing, combined with much official business and hard work connected with fleet- matters. Great crowds visited the ships. Generally, the visit created an excellent impression, both as regards Britain’s sea power as represented by the squadron and its personnel. The cruiser Adelaide left with Hood and !!e----pnlse at 7 o’clock this morning for Wellington, and is to become part ol a special squadron during the remainder of tlie cruise.

The Light cruiser Squadron, except Dragon, returns to Sydney from Brisbane on Tuesday, and sails for New Zealand on Thursday. Dragon remains at Brisbane till Thursday, when she sails to join up with the remainder of the Light Cruiser Squadron, cn route to New Zealand.

Speaking at the Government’s farewell dinner to the fleet at Parliament House. Vice-Admiral Sir Frederick Field expressed thanks for Sydney’s magnificent reception. lie declared the Empire could not exist without adequate sea power. lie impressed the need of Australia doing her part in naval defence and paid a. tribute to the Australian Navy, declaring: “So far as I can sec, there is no difference between them and us.”