DOMINIONS’ PART

Wairarapa Times-Age, 9 May 1938, Page 7

DOMINIONS’ PART

DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE. SINGAPORE’S SIGNIFICANCE. The “Economist,” continuing its articles on war and preparedness, says that the rise of air power means an increased threat to Great Britain and the ocean routes, on which she relies. “Co-operation in defence between the self-governing Dominions is becoming increasingly important,” it says. “If Australia can further contribute, as she now does, even a small quota towards Singapore, it will be a real addition to her security, and that of the British Commonwealth of Nations. “A squadron of aeroplanes sent from Singapore to Suez is likely to be more effective than a cruiser sent to the same spot. “The prospect will be more encouraging if the Dominions can construct and maintain their own planes. The local manufacture of munitions is equally important. Canada may well prove to be an invaluable channel for the supply of aeroplanes and munitions manufactured under American patents from American materials if the United States applies the Neutrality Act.

‘The Governments of Great Britain and the Dominions should explore and strengthen these possibilities. The immense industrial advance in the Dominions. especially in the metallurgical industries, may not be of immediate advantage to the British export industry, but it may prove to be invaluable to the future defence of the Commonwealth of Nations.”