FUTURE OF THE PACIFIC.

Taihape Daily Times, 6 April 1918, Page 7

FUTURE OF THE PACIFIC.

A lecture on we Pacinc isies was

recently given undc-r tiio auspices of the Syaney Cauuibe'i of Uoninioroe by

Mr. ii*wl'»*u.j j. AiCJiancn, who said lie spoke as one who had studied a great problem from the standpoint of Brit-ish-Australian patriotism, with a personal knowledge of what was till lately known as German New Guinea, the German Solomons, and the British Solomons. More than 30 years ago, while on a visit to this part of the world, the Earl of Rosebery prophetically declared that it was the destiny of Australia to be the guardian of the Pacific Islands. The time was ripe for Australia ,with her prior and parental right, to see what could be done to make the future of those islands secure. The best way to win

those islands was to recognise the efforts of the hardy pioneers, who had already done wonders in development, and to assist in making the most of the magnificent resources. When Australia realised its responsibility it could hardly fail to do its duty in keeping Germany out of the Pacific. Germany before the war was leaving nothing undone to extend its possessions in the Pacific. There was the German dream of a vast colonisation scheme, in the Pacific which would have swallowed up Australia. Tf the Government and the people of Australia stirred themselves now, the trade with the islands in 10 years' time would be more than £o~u,ooo,ouu a year. On national grounds, and apart from all commercial. considerations, the day should be welcomed which would see the Pacific Islands federated with Australia as part of the British Empire, and under a flag that had never been dipped in cowardice or dishonour.