DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXV, Issue 39, 14 February 1913, Page 6

DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE.

NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIA. SPEECHES AT THE COLONIAL INSTITUTE’S LUNCHEON. (Received 9.10 a.in. London, February 13. The Colonial Institute gave a luncheon, at which Earl Grey presided, and Lords Plunket, Lamington and Stradbroke, and the Hon. Thor-;. Mackenzie and many New Zealanders and Australians were present. The Hon. James Alien detailed Now Zealand’s efforts to uphold British traditions, including the treatment of Maoris, and military and naval defence, what had been done and was done willing ly. If called on to make si nilar Sacrifices in the future, no Now Zealander would say “No.” New Zealand had come to the conclusion that spasmodic efforts were insufficient, and something permanent must be {lone. His recent visit to Australia convinced him that'Australians were making greater sacrifices for the Empire and defence than any of the dominions. Appeals *to the . spirit of nationality had enabled Australia to do that, and if a similar appeal was made in NewiZealand he was convinced a permanent ; Defence organisation would Ire established, which would make the Empire even stronger to maintain the peace of the world. Sir Joseph Ward, proposing Earl Grey’s health, said everyone might not agree with all of Mr Allen’s views, but everybody would admit he was animated by an earnest desire to promote Imperial ideals. Earl Grey replied that New Zealand’s gift of the Dreadnought had revealed to all nations the. potential strength of the Overseas Dominions.

At Earl Grey’s instance, the guests, before the speeches began, stood silent for a moment in memory of Captain Scott and his companions.