THE AUSTRALIAN NAVY

Dominion, Volume 14, Issue 20, 19 October 1920, Page 3

THE AUSTRALIAN NAVY

RETRENCHMENT SCHEME. Retrenchments in the Commonwealth Kttvy. as announced by the Minister of the Navy (Mr. Lai'.'d Smith) recently, , have been accepted in a philosophic "•spirit by the members of tho/ service. They recognise the necessity for economy, and regard the policy of "mark-time" as unavoidable. Nevertheless (states Melbourne "Argus") there is a feeling of regret that tho Australian Navy, which had given such splendid service during the war, and had boon tested as a fighting unit almost as soon as it had been Created, should at this early stage be reduced in numbers and activities.

An active navy costs money. If its warships are sent on training' cruises the expense -is heavy. That cost lias increased very largely since 1!) U. -Coal is much dearer now, and oil fuel has advanced about 373 per cent. ~n price. Navy, officers and navy personnel recognises these facts, and are not unmindful of the financial obligations of the Commonwealth.

It is hoped that tho training of, tho men wjio nre retiring from tho servico will not b/; altogether lost to tho Australian Navy. Mon Trith good records are being asked to join tho Royal Australian Fleet Reserve, and, as reservists, rill be granted the ratings which they last held. Each man accepted will bo paid a monthly retainer of .£l, and will receive tho pay mid allowances of his rank while serving. Reservists will undergo a week's training a year. By means of the fleet .reserve it is hoped to Organise a. force of men already skilled in gunnery, torpedo work, wifeless telegraphy, and technical subjects, whose services can be readily obtained in a time of emergency.