THE IMPERIAL LEAGUE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 15764, 15 May 1913, Page 8

THE IMPERIAL LEAGUE.

NEW ZEALAND BRANCH FORMED. DEVELOPMENT OF AVIATION. (Fiiou Odr Own Coiibkspondent.) WELLINGTON, M-av 14. A movement which has for itu object the formation of a New Zealand branch of the'lmperial League took its beginning at a small meeting of civilians and military men last night. Lieut.-colonel J. lv. Cochrane, director of military operations and ' intelligence at the general headquarters, attendee! as the official representative of the general officer commanding.

Various suggestions were made as to the activities to which the New Zealand League- could beat apply itself. It was suggested, for instance, that the funds raised be used to found a scholarship entitling the holder to the privilege of a course of study in aeronautics with practical training on flying at some recognised school. Another suggestion was that the New Zealand League should work on lines similar to the Navy League, seeking to stimulate public interest in aviation and to augment the Imperial aviation fund by a contribution from the. dominion. The majority of those present were agreed, however, that the efforts of the league should be concentrated upon the development of practical aviation in New Zealand, the coiistruction of machinery, the providing of aerodromes and training grounds, instruction of pilots, and so on. In short, to assist in the creation of an air league of aviators. On one point the meeting was in entire agreement—that the league should not ask the Government to assist aviation by presenting the Imperial Government with a gift aeroplane.

A motion affirming the desirability of forming a, Nov; Zealand .Air League was adopted, and a provisional committee, with Mr Amsdcn as secretary, was appointed, its members consisting of those present at the meeting, with power to add to the number.

The intention is to invite his Excellency the Governor (Lo.rd Liverpool) to become patron of the league, and the Prime Minister (Mr Massey) and the acting Minister of Defence (Mr Khodefi) to accept the honorary offices of president and vice-president respectively. A further meeting of the committee is to. bo held to arrange for the holding of a meeting .at which his Excellency the Governor will be asked to preside.