NEED QUESTIONED.

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 363, 18 February 1937, Page 5

NEED QUESTIONED.

GERMAN COMMENT. Response By Italy Soon Expected. Press Associai ion—Copyright. Berlin, Feb. 17. S- The British defence expenditure -.has startled Germany, “it is colossal,” said the Government .spokesman. “Nevertheless we do not deny Britain’s right to arm f-rtto the extent she deems- necessary. We claim the same right." . Other German commentators -- question Britain’s need to arm so extensively, saying that Britain’s -position is far less exposed that Germany’s. It is suggested that even an air attack would be less dangerous to Britain than to Germany because enemy aeroplanes would always take some time to reach the British coast, tbps enabling more efficient defence measures to be taken. The Italians are imnresaei with Britain’s' determination, to i -air her armament deficiencies and amazed at ihe vest expenditure involved, says a cable from Rom- . -Some critics declare that Britain and > rance are now leading the armam- nis race to heights the poorer countries will be unable to follow without intolerably burdening their citizens. Italy's retponse is expected on March 1, when the Fascist Grand Council will meet to examine the entire military situation “In relation to requirements.” The actual expansion of the British navy under the new proposals will be three capital ships Jn addition to the two laid down last jtar and two aircraft carriers in addition to two in the current year. The full expansion of the fleet air arm to 450 machin e will be held up till the aircraft carriers are completed