ARMAMENT RACE

New Zealand Times, Volume LI, Issue 12008, 10 December 1924, Page 7

ARMAMENT RACE

OUTCRY AGAINST RENEWAL NEW CRUISERS ALTERING RATIO OF STRENGTH. . “MOCKERY OF TREATY.” 8r Telegraph— Press Assn.—Copyright. Australian and N.Z. Cable Association (Received December 9, 10.45 p.m.) LONDON, December 8. The “Daily Express's” naval correspondent says Sir George Thurston, writing in “Brassey’s Annual,” shows how naval, architects can get round the Washington limitations. Six George Thurston presents a design for ships, conforming to the 10,-000-ton limit, but carrying ninle 18inch guns, capable of being fired in a broadside, and each throwing a projectile neighing 2246 pounds, compared with the wartime light cruisers’ projectile of 600 Pounds. The “Daily Express” points out that the United States is promising to lay down eight new, powerful light cruisers. Japan and France six each, and Italy two. Captain Knox, an American officer, writes calling attention to the changes in naval Strengths which tho new light cruisers ate making. He adds: “They will goon make a mockery of the Washington Conference by 'destroying the agreed ratios, and restoring expensive competitive building.”

SINGAPORE BASE

EXPENDITURE UNWELCOME.” Ai HINT TO DOMINIONS. Au«tral::iE ar"! V 7. C*bl’ A"*snni»tiol . (Received December 9, 11.40 p.m.) LONDON, December 9. The “Daily Telegrapn,” commenting on the Government’s decision to proceed with the Singapore Base, says: “Doubtless the question of finance, as between the Mother Country and the Dominions, will now be reepnsidered. Britain is hot in the position of the rich uncle in the fairy story. ‘lt is really very poor, and also overtaxed. "Die expenditure on Singapore, however necessary on the broadest t Imperial grounds, is unwelcome.”