DEFENCE POLICY

Evening Post, Volume CXXII, Issue 31, 5 August 1936, Page 6

DEFENCE POLICY

WILL BE EFFECTIVE

PEACE OF THE WORLD

SUPPORT FOR LEAGUE

Only a brief: reference to defence was made by the Minister of Finance. He gave an assurance that the 'Government was taking steps to provide for the effective defence of the Dominion, and, in pointing to an increased vote for defence, said there would be the most .effective utilisation of the money available. He reiterated the Government's support for the

League of Nations.

"The atmosphere of Europe and international politics is giving the- Government much concern," said the Minister. "As has been wisely said, 'Nations do not necessarily go to war, war now comes to the nation.'

"The Government is taking such, steps as will provide for the effective defence of the Dominion, and is investigating procedure to this end. The estimates which will be submitted will show a substantial increase in naval expenditure. This is to meet commitments that have already been made to the United Kingdom. The ordinary defence estimates show a slight increase over last year, and it is proposed to overhaul completely the expenditure to ensure the most effective utilisation of the money provided.

"Whilst making provision for the defence of the Dominion and' the maximum co-operation with the British Commonwealth in its policy 'for this purpose, the Government is of opinion that the progress of the world can only be achieved through-a properly organised League of Nations.

"If .conflict comes it can end only in domination by powerful nations for a time or (if progressive development is to continue) in the constitution of another League of Nations. If a League of Nations is essential to the development of the human race, then our choice is-the present League to work out the possibilities of avoiding war before war comes, or another League after war with its destruction of all that is worth while in material and human values. As suggested by the Prime Minister of Gr6at Britain, if those who died could come .again with the knowledge of experience their presence would prevent the conflict .which may come unless the League of Nations is reconstituted now. The Government affirms its faith in the League, and has sent delegations to the International Labour Conference held in June last and to the League' Assembly, , which is scheduled to open on September 21 next. By agreement with the' other countries, the Government will do its •part to maintain - the peace of the world."