BRITAIN'S FIRMER FRONT.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 11148, 5 August 1914, Page 1

BRITAIN'S FIRMER FRONT.

WAR DECLARATION EXPECTED. (Received August 5, 0 a.xn.) SVd.YEY, August o. The Herald t, cable nows shows that Britain is presenting an ever firmer front to Germany ;;nd a formal declaration of war oo the facts cannot much longer be delayed, but as to which of the two Powers will declare war a good deal depends upon whether Italy is ready to fight at the call of her ally. Immediately Belgium's neutrality js prejudiced Britain will strike, and with all her strength. '•

The "Daily Telegraph" strongly disclaims against the censorship of the cable news as useless for the object aimed at, hut at the same time will loyally abide by the decisions of the authorities.

Tho authorities are swamped with volunteers of nil classes for the pvoposed expeditionary force. Numerous airmen are offering their services and machines. Private persons and firms aro offering motor vehicles of classes, and motor-boats for service. The Motor Cycle Glub report that they are ready to take the field. The Manufacturers' Association enthusiastically resolved to assist in every possible manner.

Tho Million Club asked the Lord Mayor to convene a meeting as a demonstration of loyalty as a means' of determining the best way of assisting tho Defence Department.

Other States report a similar wave of loyalty and readiness to assist in every possiblo moans. FINANCIALCRiSIS. (Received August 5, 10 a.m.) SYDNEY, August 5. The Eastern Extension Company advise that owing to the pressure oi Govornmont and other business, deferred and week-end services have been susiMinded. The Indo-European route via leheran is interrupted. The heads of banks ami other commercial enterprises strongly advise investors to keep ii. cool hold ou scrip. Bank and other securities are sound, they say, and there is nothing to fear.