NAVAL DEFENCE OF THE COLONY ETC. (CORRESPONDENCE RELATING TO). [In continuation of A.-6, 1887.]

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1887 Session I, A-06a

A.—6a

1887. NEW ZEALAND.

NAVAL DEFENCE OF THE COLONY ETC. (CORRESPONDENCE RELATING TO). [In continuation of A.-6, 1887.]

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of Hi* Excellency.

No. 1. The Agent-Gi_k___bal to the Pbemieb. Conpebence : Final proposals Imperial Government naval defence announced to-day. Firstly, they cannot waive 5 per cent, construction. Secondly, they assume extra cost war footing, and only ask colonies contribute peace footing. Thirdly, therefore total contribution is £125,000 round numbers, being £30,000, 5 per cent., and £90,000 maintenance. Thus colonies' liability definite and final, instead fluctuating. Fourthly, fleet remains one undivided entity, but exceptional position New Zealand recognized, and your two ships granted. They will be stationed, and only removed emergency. Sydney, Victoria, Queensland, Tasmania supported us generous language. Fifthly, delegates replied promising telegraph proposals immediately, and ask for instruction. Sixthly, proposals made that Board of Trade be requested arbitrate upon question apportionment between colonies upon basis population, trade, shipping combined. Seventhly, Imperial Government cannot go further. Lastly, Fit__herbert myself strongly advise you accept proposals. Conference resumes question defence Monday. 18th April, 1887. _____.___,_„_-__-__ F- D- Bell-

No. 2. The Pbemieb to the Agent-Geneeal. Defence : Subject approval of Parliament agree proposals providing two vessels stationed here. All colonies, including Fiji Perth, joining, and not responsible for withdrawals. We strongly urge High Commissioner Pacific should be Governor New Zealand, as best administered from here. 22nd April, 1887. ._ =mmD _ mmmraim __ m: - Eobebt Stout.

No. 3. The Agent-Genebal to the Pbemieb. Conpebence : Imperial Government recognize that any colonial assent now is subject adoption respective Parliaments. Secondly, understand condition respecting withdrawal means that each colony only answerable its own quota throughout ten years. Thirdly, is Fiji joining imperative, because I think unlikely? Fourthly, Imperial assistance Canada cable extremely unlikely at present. Lastly, Hebrides, Samoa, Tonga next Tuesday, presence Lord Salisbury. 22nd April, 1887. ' F. D. Bell.

No. 4. The Pbemieb to the Agent-Genebal. Fiji not imperative. 26th April, 1887. Eobebt Stout. [Approximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, nil ; printing (1,350 copies), 12s.]

Authority: Geobge Didsbuby, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBB7.