IMPERIAL DEFENCE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVI, Issue 6, 7 June 1913, Page 5

IMPERIAL DEFENCE.

EXPEDITING NAVAL CONSTRUCTION THE ARMY ESTIMATES. A STRENUOUS DEBATE. By Cable—Press Association—Copyright. London, June 5. 'Mr. Churchill has announced that, in view of the unforeseen circumstances in connection with Canada's offer, the Government is advancing the construction with three battleships on the 1913 programme forthwith, instead of commencing them in March, 1914. Received C, 12.10 a.m. London, June 6.

In the House of Commons, in the debate on the Army Estimates, Colonel Seely was heckled with questions reading the aerial service for home def "ee.

Colonel Seely, in reply, said that it would be a political and military disaster if the country forced the right of uniting by compulsion. The maintenance of voluntary forces would be of enormous advantage to the country's productiveness. Every man could be mobilised over the number required to secure the country against invasion. Under the present circumstances this couiu be faced without fear. He denied any intention to enter into a gladiatorial contest with Lord Roberts at the Eighty Club. THE NEW' PROGRAMME: CANADA'S COMMENT. Received 6, 11.45 p.m. Ottawa, June 5. The newspaper Free Press sees in Mr. Churchill's announcement grave results. It was a mistake of the Liberal Party to prevent Mr. Borden's contribution. The Conservative Press deplores the effect on foreign nations, and promises that when the real opinion of the couhtrv is expressed at next election Canada will surprise the world by her loyalty.