THE BRITISH NAVY.

Taranaki Daily News, 4 September 1919, Page 4

THE BRITISH NAVY.

m I ■mini I LORD FISHER'S PROTEST APPROVED. By Telegraph.—Frew Aun.-Copjr'lht. London, Sept. 2. The Times, in a leader, says that Lord Fisher's letter rightly declaims against gross extravagance in the navy, but is somewhat misleading, because the ,1910 estimates are not permanent, and a> ready ruthless cutting down has begun. • The leader declares: that the British Empire is an association of State), whose highways are ocean' highways. Tift navy's peace problems involve sea power in the Pacific and the development of Dominion naval forces, winch it ii Inadvisable to discuss pending Lord JelUcoe's report. The destruction of the German fleet does not end all fcr'tae navy.—Times Service.

A STORM OF CONTROVERSY.! / Received Sept. S, 11.45 pjn. London, Sept 2. . Lord Fisher's letter has aroused a storm of controversy. It is agreed o» all hands that great economies a» necessary, but should proceed cauttauly before the Empire's naval strength & impaired. Commander, 6. W. Bellairs JDpinte out that a good deal of heedless flkendtttre originated in Lord Fisher's policies, ana addß that the situation which demanded, a change from the Atlantic and JJMt* terranean outlook to the North Sea outlook was now finished.

Admiral Sir Percy Scott emphasised that the day of the eight million pound battleship was over. The money doidd be used to better advantage. The air service most now be considered a striking force with far-reaching capabilities. The Government's present indecision precluded a judicious reduction of expenditure. The naval administration should prepare practical schemes, with a careful regard for efficiency and economy.—Aus.«NJ2. Cable Assn.