NAVAL DEFENCE.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume XII, Issue 3588, 27 September 1920, Page 6

NAVAL DEFENCE.

MELBOURNE, Sept. 24. The Naval estimates have been iframed with a view of reducing fie Commonwealth indebtedness. Therefore it is proposed by the end of June -next to reduce the personnel from 6628 SO 4651, but it is intended to provide a reserve of complete ratings required to fully man the fleet. Steps are also to be taken o build up an adequate jreserve of ammunition, and oil fuel and coal as soon as funds are availabeh Aerial co-operation with the fleet is considered of first importance. Provision is made, therefore, for arming merchant vessels in time of war. scheme was not regarded as in any -way adequate defence of the country. It was merely the nucleus of a fleet on a local defence basis, expandable when circumstances permit. Meantime the "country musr rely on the British Navy.