ARMAMENT REDUCTION

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIII, 23 July 1929, Page 6

ARMAMENT REDUCTION

GREAT BRITAIN'S POSITION NAVT LEAGUE RESOLUTIONS The ideal of the general limitation of armaments is endorsed in a resolution passed at the annual meeting of the Grand Council and members of the Navy League held in London in May. The resolution further staUs that it is felt that such disarmament is only practical on the basis of its being general and simultaneously progressive, while retaining residual defence forces proportional to each country's responsibilities. Disagreement with those who advocate one-sided disarmament is expressed. "This country has already led the way in disarmament by reducing its navy, army and air forces," states the resolution, "and we feel that further reduction on our part without parallel reductions on the part of other Powers will not only jeopardise the security of this country and the Empire, but will imperil world'peace by rendering it impossible for Great Britain to meet her great obligations." It is also stated in another resolution that the Government will make proper provision for the defence of Great Britain and the Empire, and especially that an adequate navy and fleet air arm will be maintained for the defence of trade routes and communication upon the high seas. In view of the progressive trade with the British Dominions, India and other parts of the Empire, it has become increasingly important to defend and keep opeii the sea routes of the world.