DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIV, Issue 87, 7 December 1912, Page 6

DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE.

“AUSTRALIA’S ALL RIGHT!” (By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright (United Press Association.) (Received 7, 11.30 a.m.) Melbourne, December 7.

Air. Fisher, interviewed, said that Canada’s offer only said “That’s alright,” while Australia’s “Alright’ supports the idea. An Australian delegate to Iho Imperial Defence Committee should he a Minister closely in touch with Australian policy. Mr. Pearce .said he was sure. Australians would had with delight Canada’s establishment of a fleet in the Pacific. It was a recognition of Australia’s position, and seeing that the Dominion acted after consultation with the Admiralty, it was a commendation of our attitude. He presumed the Canadian scheme' was complimentary of, . and supplementary to, the Australian scheme. So far as he knew no communication had been received from the Imperial Government regarding the proposed Pacific fleet. “That was a matter of policy whereon lie was unable to speak freely. (Received 7, 12.10 p.m.) London, December G. The Evening News says that before the end of 1913 Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa will be represented’on The Defence Committee. But for a difference of opinion between Lord Hareourt and Mr. Fisher, Australia would have had the honour. The first admission by the conference was whether the representative would reside permanently in London or Australia, periodically visiting England for special meetings.

NOT SUIT THE GERMAN TASTE. (Received 7, 12.10 p.m.) Berlin, December 6. The Canadian offer has created ha disagreeable impression, as it was not believed possible that the Dominions could make great financial sacrifices. The German press inis been assorting for months past that Britain’s imperial spirit was weakening, and Germany would not leave a challenge unanswered. Additions to the Naval Bill and air fleet were to be expected.