The Navy Criticised.

Waimate Daily Advertiser, Volume III, Issue 173, 9 July 1901, Page 3

The Navy Criticised.

London, July i.

Debates on the navy have occurred in both Houses of Parliament. The Earl of Selborne, First L >rd of the Admiralty, in the House of Lords, and Mr H. 0. Arnold-Forater, Secretary to the Admiralty, in the House of Commons, explained that the “ two Powers” standard of strength (the British NaVy to equal tho navies of any other two Powers) would be maintained. It was intended to keep the navy so strong that it would have reasonable certainty of success anywhere. Construction was proceeding rapidly, and by the end of the year three vessels of the Cressy type, four of the Formidable, and two of the Canopus would be completed, while eight more would be finished by the end of next year. The Mediterranean fleet, when on a war footing, would be absolutely adequate for any task. Mr Arthur FoiSter expressed a hope that some of the great colonies would voluntarily contribute in proportion to the benefit they received, but it was impossible to drive them. The general opinion is that the explanations in regard to the navy are satisfactory, and ought to allay the panic. Lord Melbourne and Mr ArnolclForster explained that the new naval programme included three battleships of Ifi.oOO tons, with a speed of eighteen and a half knots, costing £1,500,000, being improved vessels of the London type, armed with four 12in guns; and a secondary armament of o.2in guns, and ten Gin guns. The vessels would be nmned King Edward, Commonwealth, and Dominion, in recognition of the great military help rendered by the colonies. It was also proposed to build six armoured cruisers of the Monmouth class, of 8900 tons, with a speed of 23 knots, armed with 7.5 in guns, and costing £709,000; besides ten 30 knot destroyers. A scientific equipment for the supply of shells and the best ammunition was rapidly proceeding. Every flagship, first and second-class cruiser, would have Marconi’s wireless telegraphic system installed. Mr Gilbert Parker, M.P. for Gravesend, said the colonies ought to contribute to the Navy their share of the world’s commerce, though they would expect some form of representation for such payment. Sir Charles Dilke hoped a ship would be named New Zealand.