MOCK WAR DANGER

Southland Times, Issue 21897, 24 December 1932, Page 2

MOCK WAR DANGER

EMPIRE TRADE ROUTES. COMMENT BY JUDGE. London, December 14. “Traffic on trade routes should be allowed to be carried on in peace time undisturbed by imaginary war,” said Mr Justice- Scrutton, in the Appeal Court. He gave judgment in dismissing the appeal from the owners of the French liner Florida, which collided with the aircraft-carrier Glorious on April 1, 1931, with the loss of 22 lives. The Lower Court had held that both vessels were to blame, but chiefly the Florida. Mr Justice Scrutton added that if manoeuvres especially involving air-craft-carriers, which were continually shifting with the wind, had to be performed in foggy weather, it would be wise if the great Admiralties ensured the avoidance of trade routes. Nineteen aeroplanes from the Glorious were taking part in manoeuvres in the Mediterranean Sea on April 1, 1931; when one was forced into the sea. Rushing to the plane’s aid at a speed of 17 knots, in the mist, in the performance of her duty as “mother,” the Glorious crashed into the Florida, cutting a gaping hole in the vessel’s port bow. The Florida did not sink, but a number of immigrants, who were in a hold in the centre-line of the vessel, were killed instantly. The Glorious lost four aeroplanes, which were forced into the sea, but the crews were saved.