DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIV, Issue 94, 16 December 1912, Page 2

DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE.

SIR WILFRID LAURIER. By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright (United Press 'Association.) Ottawa, December 14. M. Pelletier replied to Sir Wilfrid Lauricr, taunting him with not being so anxious to aid Britain when he had the power. The real trial of strength would be in British waters. Where, then, would be the value of Canadian squadrons if in Canadian waters, looking on? It was absurd to say that Canada could man her own fleet when it was not possible to man one cruiser. All the Rainbow’s and Xiobe’s crews were brought from Britain. Sir W ilfrid Lauricr was only parading his generosity, knowing that there was no likelihood of his being asked to give it effect.

PRESS CRITICISM. London, December 15. ‘The Times’ says that the Canadian ships cannot be built in two years. Mr. Borden’s permanent policy, therefore, lias full time to mature. Meanwhile arrangements will be made to secure the immediate development ol constructional facilities for Canada. Mr. Borden hit the most practical and businesslike method of dealing with the matter. It was of real Imperial importance that the capacity of naval construction should be distributed instead of concentrated here. The natural course would be to begin with the smaller craft, which is the Australian policy. . The ‘Daily Telegraph’s’ New York correspondent says that the press, with a few exceptions, ignored Mr Borden’s and Sir Wilfrid Laurier’s speeches. If an editor is asked why, ho says that it not America’s business to advertise her neighbour, also that the contribution is quite unnecessary. Canada can always rely on the Monroe doctrine and Uncle Sam’s protection. The difficulty of recruiting a fleet in Canada is thoroughly appreciated in Washington.