The Manawatu Herald. Tuesday, March 23, 1909. THE NAVAL CRISIS.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXI, Issue 453, 23 March 1909, Page 2

The Manawatu Herald. Tuesday, March 23, 1909. THE NAVAL CRISIS.

Every loyal subject throughout the Dominion will endorse Cabinet’s decision, published elsewhere in this issue, to come to the assistance of the Motherland in her time of need. The cables have informed us recently of Germany’s strenuous efforts to outclass Great Britain’s naval programme, which bears with it an oninous sign which is clearly defined by students of international politics. Great Britain’s burden of Empire is enormous and her Dominions beyond the seas rest secure only under the protection of her navy. In Great Britain’s endeavour to maintain her naval supremacy, it is the bouuden duty of every dependency to take its share of the load —even at great sacrifice. We therefore applaud Cabinet’s determination to demonstrate in a practical way the sacrifice that New Zealand is willing to make during the present crisis. Our offer of help is comparatively great and the moral effect is farreaching. Germany, or any other foreign power which attempts to lower Great Britain’s naval prestige will learn that the scattered sons of Empire are bound by indissoluble ties to the Motherland, and will rally to her side in the time of trial in such a way as to offer them a staggering set - back. Germany will discover, when the crisis has passed, that she uautically attempted to bite off more than her people can conveniently chew. The New Zealand Government’s timely offer rises above mere party politics. That the situation is grave is evidenced by the activity and liberal l offers of help from Statesmen throughout the Empire. We are pleased to know that New Zealand is prepared to take its share of responsibility and sets a grand example to the other States.