DEFENCE.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIV, Issue 242, 13 October 1933, Page 8

DEFENCE.

FRESH POLICY.

LARGER AIR FORCE. MODERN CRUISERS. LIAISON WITH AUSTRALIA. aNO UNDUE DELAY WILL OCCUR." (By Telegraph.—Parliamentary Reporter.) WELLINGTON, this day. A new Defence policy has been decided upon by the Government, and a forecast of it was given to-day by the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. G. W. Forbes. The four main points are:— Replacement of the present cruisers by more modern vessels. Strengthening of the Air Arm. Increase in coastal armament. Development of a military liaison between New Zealand and Australia. Mr. Forbes' statement, was as under:— "The Government has given consideration to the question of strengthening the defences of New Zealand, and has come to certain definite conclusions, but in the meantime we propose to concentrate on aerial defence. "Therefore it is proposed to increase the Air Force by two flights of aircraft, in addition to two flights of coastal reconnaissance aircraft, to be manned by the regular personnel. By a progressive programme of replacement the present machines in use will be replaced by craft of more modern and effective design. Anti-aircraft defence at vulnerable points will also be provided for, and increased where the necessity demands. ' "Coastal defence has also not been lost sight of, and additional armament at existing coast defences will be provided for. "The Territorial Force lias a responsible task to perform in the defence of the Dominion, and the Government's desire is suitably to recognise in a reasonable manner the response of those who are prepared to devote their time to this essential service. "The interchange of personnel with Australia will also be arranged, thereby developing the existing liaison between the two Dominions. "It is the Government's intention that no undue delay will occur in establishing this phase of the programme of defence, which naturally will result in an increase of the annual Defence vote. "In so far as naval defence is concerned the present cruisers will be replaced by more modern vessels, in accordance \tfith arrangements made with the Home authorities, when the period for the exchange of vessels arrives,' "The opinion of the authorities of the various arms of the service at Home as to how 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 decided upon only after the closest consultation with the United Kingdom."