NAVAL PROBLEMS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume L, Issue 15235, 24 February 1913, Page 7

NAVAL PROBLEMS.

AUSTRALIA'S NEW SHIPS.

"PRIVATEERS AND PIRATES."

POSSIBLE DIFFICULTIES.

By Telegraph.—rrcsa Association—Copyright (Received February 23, 5,5 p.m.) . London, February 22. The Morning Post's naval correspondent declares that if the Australian Navy takes up patrol duties in the South Pacific rather serious questions will arise.

It seems quite clear, says the correspondent, that the Australian Navy will not be under the Admiralty's orders, so that the Admiralty cannot be held responsible for its actions. The Commonwealth is.not a sovereign Power and accordingly the Australian ships will not be recognised abroad as part of the British Navy, but will be ignored as possessing no place in international law. v " If the Australian Navy is refused recognition by the ships of foreign Powers it will, says the writer, be deeply insulted; yet vessels not representing a. sovereign Power are regarded as privateers and pirates. It is possible, however, remarks the correspondent, that a secret arrangement has been concluded between the governments of Great Britain and the Commonwealth settling these points.

CANADA'S PROPOSED GIFT

OPPOSED BY THE LIBERALS.

Ottawa, February 22.

The Liberals have decided to oppose the Canadian Naval Bill (providing for the gift of three battleships to Great Britain). in all its stages. Mr. T. W. Crothers, in speaking in favour of the measure, pointed out that the present proposal was not a permanent policy, but was merely designed to aid the Empire in the most effective way pending a decision as to Cabinet's definite scheme.

Mr. McLean (Halifax) alleged that ;he Admiralty memorandum, which was presented by Mr. Borden in introducing the Bill, .was secured under duress exercised by Canadian Ministers. The memorandum did not reflect official opinion in Great Britain.