OUR GIFT.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXV, Issue 79, 10 April 1913, Page 5

OUR GIFT.

ONE OF THE GOLDEN DEEDS CANADIAN REFERENCES. [By Electric Telegraph—Copyright J [United Press A&bociytion.J Ottawa, April 9. The navy debate was continued by Mr White, who declared that Cabinet was as strongly opposed to a periodic contribution to the Imperial Navy, as the Liberals. Amid'Ml the talk about autonomy during 1909 New Zealand gave a Dreadnought. This action was approved throughout the world, and was one of the golden deeds in the Empire's history. Sir Wilfrid Laurier's policy, he continued, was merely political expediency. It was never intended it should fruitify. If Canada decided in favour of a. local navy as a permanent policy then the Conservatives would agree to it, but the first gift of three Dreadnoughts must be made to the Motherland. Mr Borden, he intimated, was preparing to introduce a Closure Bill.

MISSING AT ROLL-CALL

Melbourne, April 9

At roll call a day before the battleship New Zealand's departure, sixteen seamen were found to be missing. Warrants and rewards were issued for their arrest. It is understood that the majority were recovered and returned later, and the warship left with practically a full complement.