DOMINION DEFENCE

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 54, Issue 2, 13 October 1933, Page 5

DOMINION DEFENCE

THE GOVERNMENT'S INTENTIONS CONCENTRATION ON AERSAL ARM AN INCREASE IN THE FORCE. (Per Press Association). WELLINGTON, This Day. The Governments'intentions: in the matter of defence were the subject .of a statement issued by the Prime Minister (the Rt, Hon. G. W. Forbes) this morning. s Mi- Forbes said that the Government had given consideration to the question of strengthening the defences of New Zealand and had como to certain, definite conclusions, but'in the meantime it proposed to concentrate on aerial defence.

"It is therefore proposed to increase the Air Force by two flights of aircraft in addition to two flights of coastal reconnaissance aircraft. Jhese are to be manned by the regular personnel. By a ■ progressive programme of replacement, the machines at present in use will be substituted by craft of more modern and effective design. Provision will also be made for antiaircraft defence at: vulnerable points, and this . will' be increased where necessity demands. ~ Coastal defence has not been overlooked and provision will be made-for additional armament at the' existing coast, defences. : ■ "The Territorial Force has a responsible task to perform in the defence of the Dominion. The. Government s desire is to recognise in a suitable and reasonable manner the response ot those who are prepared to devote thentime to this essential service. Interchange of personnel with Australia Willie arranged, thereby developing the existing liaison between the two Dominions. It is the Government s intention that no undue delay shall occur in establishing this phase of the programme of defence, which naturally will result in an increase in the annual defence vote. . Insofar as naval defence is concerned the present cruisers will be, re* placed by more modern yessels-m accordance with arrangements made with the Home authorities—when the period for the exchange of the vessels arrives. The opinion of authorities of various arms of the service at Home as to now New Zealand could best utilise her resources to ensure her own defence, as well as to assist in the defence of the Empire, has been obtained, and the Government's proposals have been formulated only after the c losest conS;ultation with the United Kingdom.