BRITISH POLITICS.

Hokitika Guardian, 10 November 1924, Page 3

BRITISH POLITICS.

BRITAIN’S NAVA I, POLICY

THE “OBSERVER’S" VIEWS

/“Sydney Sun” Cables)

(Received this day at 9.25 a m.) LONDON. Nov. 0.

Tho “Observer” anticipates the Conservatives will inaugurate a vigorous naval ship-building policy and replace tho ohsoleto ships, restoring the three cruisers the Labourites cancelled. It recalls that the Admiralty pointed out a year ago that fifty-two cruisers must be* built by 1033 to keep abreast of foreign development. Britain is also falling behind in destroyer strength. "When the results of the present experimental destroyers are known a big programme is likely. The licet also wants Tin to date aircraft carriers. The “Observer,” discussing Colonel Amery’s appointment, says that no man who ever filled the position has brought more knowledge thereto. His

whole life, for a quarter of a century, has been a consecutive preparation. Therefore Mr Amery is welcomed l>v the "Dominions and when the results of the Imperial Conference, regarding preference are restored we hope lie will put further controversy aside and set himself to promote the Imperial development of communications, transport and eo-operation hy every practical means. The final issue cannot usefully be raised during tliis Parliament. Crea- *» five- work can be done without it. Singapore is a difficult question to the new government, owing to Japanese misgivings. Singapore is regarded by the Japanese as more in the opposite direction of the Anglo-Japancse Allaneo which the Washington Confeience scrapped. Nothing is gained by shutting the eyes. Japanese feeling is intensified by the recollection that Japan bad been a loyal friend to Britain for twenty years. Japanese confidence is an essential element in an understanding between naval powers. Canada’s nearness to America and Australia’s nearness to Japan create conflicting views on the British naval policy in the Pacific. At the Imperial Conference in 1021. before the Washington Conference. Canada opposed a continuance of the Anglo-Japnnese Alliance, while Australia favoured it. Singapore is ft far-reaching and importnnt problem, nnd it is expedient thp government will not take ft Jiasty decision.