THE EMPIRE'S DEFENCE.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VII, Issue 542, 15 February 1913, Page 5

THE EMPIRE'S DEFENCE.

London, Thursday. The Colonial Institute entertained J the Hon. Jas. Allen, New Zealand's j Minister of Defence,at luncheon today Earl Grey, ex-Governor of Canada, presided, and among the guests were. Lord Plunket, ex-Governor of New Zealand; the Earl of Strathbroke, president of the National Artillery Association; Lord Lamington, ex-Gover-nor of Queensland and of Bombay; and many prominent New Zealanders and Australians were present. Mr Allen detailed New Zealand's effocts to uphold British traditions, including her treatment of the Maoris and heir military and naval defence. What had been done had been done willingly, and if called upon to make similar sacrifices in the future no New Zealander would say no. New Zealand had come to the conclusion that spasmodic efforts were insufficient, and that something permanent must be done. His recent visit to Australia had convinced him that Australians were making greater sacrifices for Empire defence than any of the other Dominions. The appeal to the spirit of nationality enabled Australia to do that. If a similar appeal to the spirit of nationality were made to New Zealand Mr Allen was convinced that the spirit of nationality would be reawakened in the Dominion. Mr Allen was convinced that a permanent defence organisation would be established which would make the Empire even stronger, and would maintain the world's peace.

Sir J. G. Ward, proposing Earl Grey's health, said that everyone might not agree with all Mr Allen's views, but everybody would admit that he was animated by an earnest desire to promote Imperial ideals. Earl Grey replied that New Zealand's gift of a Dreadnought revealed to the nations the potential strength of the overseas Dominions.

At Sir Edward Grey's instance the guests at the outset of the speeches stood silent for a moment in memory of Captain Scott and his companions.