THE BRITISH ARMY.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XLVII, Issue 8060, 10 March 1906, Page 3

THE BRITISH ARMY.

E. B. HALDAXE'S POLICY. Received 10,12.0 a.m. London, March It. In the House of Comuious, Mr I!. B. Haldane, Secretary for War, explaining the Government's military policy, admitted tlie army was never more efficient, and it was impossible to make economies beyond LIT,ODD without impairing the fighting efficiency. The Government did not intend to abolish any of the Home battalions, but believing the Navy was able to defeud tin. shores, intended to abolish the out-of-date London defences and useless coastal forts. It was also intended to reduce Colouial garrisons', and disband the native regiment at Wei-hai-wci. The size of the mobile striking force for oversea service, must depend largely upon the requirements of India. It was impossible to reduce t'le striking force unless a system existed enabling rapid expansion if needed. It was hoped to see more men voluntarily learn the elements of training. Volunteer cadet corps and ritle clubs ought to be encouraged. 'The manhoo.l of the country ought, to be & skeleton org mission, capable of "being clothed in flesh in war time. The militia needed improvement. By the CDd of May two army corps would be armed with Field guns, (ireat progress had been made in »ru)iug the troops with the short rifle. The House and Press are complimentary to Mr llaldane.