"FROM THE CANNON’S MOUTH!”

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXV, Issue 31, 5 February 1913, Page 5

"FROM THE CANNON’S MOUTH!”

“HANDS OFF!” SPEECHES ON THE BATTLESHIP NEW ZEALAND. (By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.} (United Press Association.) <R eceived 9.15 a.m.) London, February -4. Speaking during the visit of inspection to the battleship New Zealand, the Hon. Thomas Mackenzie said he was proud to have been a member of Sir Joseph Ward’s Government. The coat of arms might be taken to typify Drake’s Revenge, Anson’s Centurion, and Halsey’s New Zealand, whereas the former were buccaneers and Halsey was a man of peace and goodwill. They were proud New Zealand was the first to make a definite offer. Australia quickly followed, then Canada and the Malay States; and he was sure South Africa, India, and others would do their part. The New Zealand’s voyage would be one of great demonstrations. It showed England that by trusting the Overseas Dominions, and giving them the power of self-government and privilege o, working out their own destinies, she receives the Overseas Dominions’ spontaneous support, whereas when she attempted to force on the Unitec States a contribution towards Defence she lost possession. The voyage was also an indication to envious rival; that the Mother Country would noi be threatened and menaced without their having to reckon with the daughter States, for the words “Hand; Off!” would come from the cannon’; mouth on behalf of her daughters. The New’ Zealand typified the powei of the Empire on the sea. New Zealand and others were exceedingly anxious that the Navy of the Empire should be equal to any challenge. Thej did not wish to become pawns on the chessboard. The Hon. James Allen said if the Mother Country needed more New Zealand would give it. They were determined to keep the flag flying on the seas over the whole world, and were anxious that the Pacific should be as safe as the Atlantic and the North Sea. He hoped the colonies in the Pacific would put their heads togcthei to ensure the safety of New’ Zealand. They would not be satisfied until thej had more ships and more New Zealand bluejackets. They considered it insufficient to sacrifice material only to the Empire’s needs, but must alsc give men who would be forthcoming when they could afford it. Sir George Reid is confined to bee; with influenza and cancelled all engagements. As the King’s visit of inspection tc the battleship New' Zealand on Asl Wednesday is to be semi-private, there will be no guard of honour, and onlj one reporter and one photographer. THE COST PER HEAD. London, February 4. The Telegraph says that the New Zealand represents a cash contribution of 40s a head for every New Zealander In fact 1 , it is an example and an inspiration to the people of every nation under the flag.