THE BRITISH NAVY.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXVII, Issue 31, 7 October 1913, Page 5

THE BRITISH NAVY.

NO IMPERIAL CONFERENCE. [By Electric Telegraph^—Copyright] [United Press assmaivon. j London, October 6. * The Daily Telegraph, on the highest authority, states that Mr Asquith has decided not to summon an Imperial naval conference. The paper adds that the Government’s decision not to summon a conference will occasion widespread disappointment, particularly overseas. Australia is amyous for adivco and guidance, and New Zealand is hesitating how much further to assist in naval defence. South Africa and Canada are also desirous of expert advice.

Mr Asquith sajs that the decision is due to internal political difficulties which the Cabinet had not foreseen. Resentment had been aroused, even in some liberal quarters, by the operations of the Parliament Act. H was particularly surprised at tin character of Ulster’s opposition. Tin Cabinet is disinclined to invite representatives of the Dominions until i general election has cleaxfkl the political atmosphere. A consultation' on the naval affairs of the Empire will thus be deferred until 1915. Meanwhile individual overseas Ministers can visit England and meet the Defence Committee and the heads of the Admiralty and War Office.