NAVAL DEFENCE.

Press, Volume LVII, Issue 17103, 26 March 1921, Page 10

NAVAL DEFENCE.

TO THE EDITOR OP * THE PRESS." Sir, —In the excellent leading article of the 24th inst. you accuse the Canterbury Branch of the Navy League of being indefinite in'their policy ns regards the Dominion's financial support to the Royal Navy. t The Navy League of London asked for our views on their pronounced policy, ,and the question of the financial support was hut a side issue. I interpret the spirit of the local League as expressed at our annual meeting t thus: Firstly—That whole-hearted support be given to the Navy League in London in its new policy as long as the "one Power" standard of tho Royal Navy is upheld, and as long as the policy is consistent with the requirements and adequate protection of the Empire. Secondly—That we support the Government in that direction, and, if necessary, the Dominion should accept pro rata the financial responsibility for the upkeep of the Navy, wo as a body giving our loyal support. It is impossible to estimate what amount New Zealand might be asked to contribute until the naval «policy of the British Government has been outlined, and until Mr Massey. returns from the Imperial Conference with the necessary date. We rely on the strength of the Royal Navy for our security and for the keeping open of our trade routes.

"We must bo prepared to give our financial support in a just proportion for the upkeep of the Navy, for after all it is "but an insurance on our exports and imports. The financial strain may be great, but we liave no option if necessity forces the pace. Although we are pledged to do our utmost to carry out the above policy, we'are yet hopeful that a much better way will be found to overcome the present unrest, a sounder policy forthcoming, and that the insane competitive armaments among nations will cease, and the chief naval Powers will come to some agreement as to the basis of the world's disarmament. Great Britain is ready to take a lead, Japan is also willing, and it is to be hoped that tho ' Commission which is shortly to visit America may pave the way for a solid peace, and stop at once the ruinous armaments which are hurling the nations to disaster and financial downfall.—Yours, etc., HENRY-J. MARRINER, President Canterbury Branch Navy League.