DEFENCE OF AUSTRALIA

Otago Witness, Issue 2923, 23 March 1910, Page 27

DEFENCE OF AUSTRALIA

SYDNEY, March 15. The.meeting at Broken Hill Town Hall called by the Socialist group to protest against fostering the military spirit led to a strong counter-demonstration, endingin a free fight and the interference of the police. • ■_ The voices of the speakers were drowned by the singing of patriotic sonjfs. The furniture and fittings of the hall suffered considerably during the rough-and-tumble. When order was at last restored a counter-demonstration carried a (resolution favouring the defence move-" ment and supporting, a citizen soldierv. March 17. The cruiser Encounter has left 'for* Colombo, where she recommfesions. Mr Deakin announces that the contract for the armoured cruiser which will be the flagship of the Commonwealth < fleet has been let to the John Brown Company (Glasgow), arid that she will be completed in two years. MELBOURNE, March 17. The Australian Natives' Association adopted a resolution in favour of the Government's defence policy, but against "borrowing money to carry it out. Proposals also were carried recommending the establishment of an Australian Navj League. LONDON, March 15. Denny Bros,, will launch the second Australian destroyer on the 9th of ApTil, and Sir G. H. Reid will christen her.