THE BRITISH NAVY.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 71, 14 March 1914, Page 6

THE BRITISH NAVY.

CONSIDERATION OF THE ESTIMATES. [By Electric Telegraph—Copyright] [United Press Association.] London, March 13. The Naval Estimates show that the personnel of the navy is 151,500, an •increase of 5000. For new construction, excluding air Service, £18,373,000 will be requested, whei-eof the new programme will require £l-1,817,000, a decrease of £4,007,V00. Thirteen battleships, one battle cruiser, 16 light cruisers, 30 torpedoers and 24 submarines are building. A sum of £375,000 will be devoted to the construction of aircraft, hive seaplane bases will bo completed, and guns capable of elevation against aircraft have now been mounted on battleships. i Experiments in bomb-throwing and wireless telegraphy are continuous. The statement adds that the Canadian Government, not having obtained Parliamentary sanction to build its three ships, the development of a considered naval policy in Canada is therefore in abeyance. Lobby criticism is concentrating on the absence of a provision for making good the deficiency of the Canadian vessels, and the failure to increase the strength of the Mediterannoan ffeet. Ministerialists generally approve or the absence of provision to replace the Canadian warships.

THE NEW ZEALAND DIVISION.

Times and Sydney Sun Services,

London, March 13

In connection with the Naval Estimates, it is explained that H.M.S. Philomel will shortly bo transferred to New Zealand.

. The ordinary channel for entry for New Zealand cadets will be through the Australian Naval College. There will be an effective period of service of seven years.

Two light cruisers will be retained by the Admiralty for the New Zealand division and will be maimed by New Zealanders.