CANADA'S NAVY.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXV, Issue 10713, 9 April 1913, Page 5

CANADA'S NAVY.

CABLE NEWS

(United Prest Association—-By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.)

QUESTION OF POLICY. THE GOVERNMENT CRITICISED. (Received Last Night, 11.20 o'clock.) OTTAWA, April 8. Sir Wilfrid Laurier, speaking on the Navy debate, said the Admiralty had apparently adopted a policy of concentration, leaving the overseas Dominions unprotected. The Government, he said, had entirely abandoned the Canadian navy policy, intending to replace it with a policy of contribution to the British fleet. 'The emergency navy was of make-believe importance. The development of a national pride-wa s recognised in Australia, which followed the correct policy of a local navy j as undoubtedly in the best int-erests of the Empire. He quoted the Hons. Jas. Allen and A. Fisher, Lord Dennian and Sir George Reid, as proof that local navies were best. Imperial federation was a great idea, but the conditions weer premattu-e, and would only come when Canadians were prepared to surrender: their financial independence. to a Parliament wliich was not responsible rto the Canadians. He dethat - this' intended to pursue their obstruction policy. The' Hon. R. L. Borden, replying, said the Government denied absolutely any policy of contribution. Their permanent policy was yet to be developed. Three ships were merely an. acknowledgement of Britain's care for the Dominion, and assistance towards the present great development. The ships could be brought home at any time, On notice being given. It was not possible for Canada to remain reutral during war, as Sir Wilfrid ! Laurier had suggested. An emergency- policy best met the wishes of the Admiralty, and had their free concurrence.