TO BE STRENGTHENED

Evening Post, Volume CXVI, Issue 90, 13 October 1933, Page 8

TO BE STRENGTHENED

CONCENTRATION ON AIR GOVERNMENT'S PLANS ANNOUNCED BY MR. FORBES Replacement of the present cruisers yith. more modern vessels, 'a Strengthening of the air arm, an increase in coastal armament, and the development of the existing liaison between New Zealand and Australia are the four main points in the new defence policy of the Government, a forecast of which was given by the Prime Minister (the Rt..Hon. G. W. Forbes) today. Mr. Forbes's statement was as follows: — "The Government has given consideration to tho question of strengthening the defences of New Zealand, and has come to certain definite conclusions, but in the meantime proposes 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, to be manned by regular personnel. "By a progressive programme of replacement the present machines in use will be replaced by craft of a more modern and effective design. "Anti-aircraft defence at vulnerable points will a'iso be provided for and increased where 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 has a responsible task to perform in the defence of the Dominion. The Government's dosire is to suitably recognise in a reasonable manner the, response of those who are prepared to devote their time to this essential service. ' "Interchange of personnel with Australia will also be avanged thereby Hevelopin'g the existing liaison botween the two Dominions. "It is the Government's intention that no undue delay will occur in establishing this phase of tho programme of defence which naturally will result in 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 with arrangements made with the Homo 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."