BRITAIN'S FOREIGN POLICY.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXI, Issue 3050, 21 November 1908, Page 5

BRITAIN'S FOREIGN POLICY.

SPEECH BY SIR E. GREY. Received November 20, 11.50 p.m. LONDON, November 20. Sir Edward Grey, speaking at Scarborough, acknowledged the Op- ! position leader's generous support of the Government's foreign policy. "This," he said, "enabled us to create abroad an impression of stability and solidity, which is very valuable." Sir Edward noted that the difference between Germany and France regarding the trivial incident in Morocco has been settled in a way consistent with the dignity of both. Referring to the crisis in Germany he noted the fact that although the speakers in the Reichstag spoke their minds with exceeding freedom none indicated hostility towards Britain or any other country. Until recently the Powers despaired of Turkey, yet a most wonderful and beneficient change seen in history had now occurred there. The good forces lying latent had suddenly gained the upper hand and noted reformers had the army at their back.

Sir Edward continued: "Britain must have and maintain a navy able to overcome any pr jbable combination able to be brought against her. There must be no half-way house between complete safety and absolute ruin." Referring to the Near East Sir Edward saw that he trusted the conference of Powers would dispose of difficulties there, "but," he said, "you cannDt force a conference and I have satisfactory results." He adI mitted that progress had been slow. It was desirable that time should not be wasted. Some progress had been made this week because Turkey had been assured of sympathy and fair play in the Councils of Europe. Further difficulties remained to be overcome, but the winter which has been unfavourable to action on the Balkans was favourable to the Councils.