CORRESPONDENTS' VIEWS

Evening Post, Volume CXXI, Issue 68, 20 March 1936, Page 11

CORRESPONDENTS' VIEWS

"C.A.W." writes: Whilst admitting A.A.H.'s contention that the defence of New Zealand from actual invasion may best be carried out by a strong air force, I would like to draw your attention to other equally important considerations. It is agreed that attack on New Zealand must come from the sea. Even an air attack must be launched from sea-borne craft, as we are not within effective range of land bases. New Zealand is" protected against attack from sea and air by the Royal Navy, which is at present our first line of defence.

Invasion of or direct attack on New Zealand can be regarded as a very remote contingency v.hilst Britain retains her strength at sea.. There is however a more likely danger. New Zealand relies for her prosperity, if not her livelihood, on her overseas trade, the bulk of which is with Great Britain, and which is entirely carried fay sea. Pier prime consideration then is the maintenance of her communications with the rest of the world, particularly Britain. It follows therefore that New Zealand's defence against economic ruin through warfare depends upon the British Navy.

In addition, should Britain suffer defeat at the hands of a foreign Power New Zealand's fate would be on the knees of the gods. For although she may resist attack with her Air Force, she must capitulate to repeated attacks coupled with economic isolation enforced by the victorious enemy. In view of the chaotic condition of world affairs today I would suggest that New Zealand's defence is best effected by a large contribution towards the upkeep of the British Navy.