THE AUSTRALIAN DINNER.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 9224, 28 May 1910, Page 7

THE AUSTRALIAN DINNER.

NOTABLE SPEECHES

(By Electbio Telegbaph—Copxbight.) .Peb Pbebs Association.) ' LONDON, May 27. At the Australian dinner, Sir Geo.Reid, in proposing the health of Lord Kitchener, said Australia's beginning of an Army and Navy may be small, but she felt that she was able to take a larger share" in the responsibilities of Empire. Their soldiers and ships would bo firstly for Australia's defence, but if danger came whatever ehipe Canada, Australia and South Africa had would very soon be in the fighting line of the Empire.' Australia, wanted to start with the very best military advice and. had obtained it. The. speaker hoped Lord Kitchener had given Australia a start which would enable her to take a shigh place in the Empire on the vital principle of defence. ■ Lord Kitchener, replying, said it was very satisfactory to learn that the scheme he had prepared had been endorsed by Mr Fisher and his new Labour Government, which had also endorsed Colonel Kirkpatrick's appointment, thus obtaining the advice of a very capable officer, who would be of the utmost value to them. This continuity of policy would enable Australia to successfully solve the problems which give- - such „ trouble to other countries. He was also glad to know that New Zealand has adopted the'same system, as thue a uniform organisation would be created throughout Australasia. He was confident that his scheme would be carried out without serious alterations. He was sure the minor obstacles would be overcome without, interfering with fundamental principles.