DUTCH DEFENCES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 14585, 23 January 1911, Page 5

DUTCH DEFENCES.

DEBATE IN STATES-GENERAL.

THE SCHEME CRITICISED

By Telegraph.— Association.—right.

(Received January 22, 5.5 p.m.)

The Hague, January 21. During a debate in the StatesGeneral several speakers criticised the Government for devoting too much attention'to coastal defence.

Some critics added that a portion of the money asked for might more usefully be applied to completing the fortifications' of Amsterdam and improving the lines of defence by facilitating arrangements for 'flooding the low-lying portions of the country in war time. "

A GERMAN POINT OF VIEW.

BRITAIN AND FRANCE BLAMED London, January 20. Herr Kleim, ex-leader of the German Navy League, declares that France and England have been attempting to interfere with the sovereignty of Holland, and that they are really aiming at Germany. The latter, he says, must oppose these well-organised and- well-paid machinations. ' . '. ' .'

The Berliner Tageblatt says that weak London prices, due to rumours originating in London, regarding differences between France and Germany, concerning the Flushing scheme, have affected the Paris Bourse. A Reuter cable confirms the statement regarding weakness on the Bourse, which is partly due to unfavourable foreign advices.

The Pall Mall Gazette says it is difficult to believe that the Dutch Government will hold out against the protests of the Powers concerning her defence scheme. Belgium's protest will be pushed even to the point of war.