DEFENCE MATTERS.

Evening Star, Issue 11267, 14 June 1900, Page 6

DEFENCE MATTERS.

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce recently communicated with the Defence Department, making a number of suggestions concerning the defences of the colony. A reply has now been received from the Commandant of the, Forces (Colonel Penton), intimating that the question of thoroughly equipping the forces and providing them with suitable ranges and drillshcd accommodation was at present receiving the attention of the. Government. ,T'he question of encouraging rifle clubs was also being given consideration. A propositi for the formation of an Imperial Reserve Force was laid before the Acting-Premier yesterday by a deputation, which included Sir Arthur Douglas and Colonel" Penton. Captain Barclay said it w;ts proposed that a corps should lie formed on Imperial lines, and consist of ex-Imperial officers, non-commissioned officers,. and n en of all branches of Her Majesty's service. He asked the Government whether they would accept such a corps, and pointed out lliat sections 82 and 83 of the Defence Act, 1886, .gave power to the Governor to enrol for special or particular service. There was, he said, estimated to be 1,000 officers and men to be enrolled. As to finances, he suggested a. capitation of £3 per head per annum to. men. The officers asked "for nothing. The Hon. Mr Ward regarded the proposal with faVor, and said he would be glad to submit it to Ms colleagues for consideration, He could not, he said, commit the Government to anything iu connection with details, but if their services were accepted there was but little doubt that the necessary legislation would be given effect to.