U.K. Statement On Defence ‘Realistic’

Press, Volume CV, Issue 30994, 25 February 1966, Page 12

U.K. Statement On Defence ‘Realistic’

(New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, February 24. inister (Mr Holyoake) said - h ® welcomed the British GovernfaciliHoqdto Cl M°? maintain its military facilities m Malaysia and Singapore.

The Prime Minister spoke after his first reading of the British White Paper on de fence. He sdid he would examine in detail over the next few days. Mr Holyoake said the review was a realistic endeavour to match Britain’s world responsibilities to its economic resources. “Some modification and shifts of those responsibilities had become inevitable but I am glad to say that the gloomiest and erroneous predictions of those critics who alleged that Britain was preparing to retreat into Europe have not been fulfilled ” Mr Holyoake said he had been particularly struck with the conditions Britain had set as the basis on which it would be ready to take part in defence activities outside Europe -Particularly the indication that Britain would not undertake major operations of war except in co-operation with its allies.

This is a timely reminder to us all, whether our countries are large or small, that we live m an interdependent world and that our actions, if they are to be effective, must be taken in concert.”