Second Edition DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIV, Issue 88, 9 December 1912, Page 6

Second Edition DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE.

THE GERMAN POLICY. (By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.) (United Press Association.) (Received 9, 9.5 a.m.) Berlin, December S. Herr Revbntlow accuses Mr, Asquith and Winston Churchill of insincerity in appealing to Germany to consider the burden of naval expenditure, because they knew that Mr. Borden’s proposal was to bo sprung. Unless Britain substitutes the three Canadian for the three British Dreadnoughts, the whole question of the German Naval policy would be raised, afresh.

Capetown, December S. The ‘Cape Times’ welcomes Canada’s proposals, with enthusiasm, and hopes the South African Union will imitate the move. - The ‘Argus’ says Canada has given an inspiring lead in treating the ques-' tion as one of sea supremacy and not merely local defence. • Genei'al Hertbog, Minister of Justice, speaking at Rustenbnrg, complained that Mr. Smartt was first an Imperialist, and afterwards a-South African. General Hertzog said he himself only believed in Imperialism so far as it benefited South African interests. South Africans should be always perpared to fulfil their, obligations, and protect their interests, but they should not bo influenced by sentiment and jealousy; because the Malay •Straits had given a Dreadnought, it was ridiculous to argue that South Africa,should also give one.

THE SYDNEY PAPERS. (Received 9, 10.10 a.m.) Sydney, December 9. The ‘Morning Herahjf sayS that from whatever aspect Mr. Borden’s offer is considered, it must ho regarded as a conspicuous land mark in the history of the Empire. The step was of the greatest importance to the development of the Imperial Constitution. Referring to the provision that the Canadian Minister of Justice is to be a permanent member of the Defence Committee, the paper points nut that Mr Fisher can see no more satisfactory means of expression of Australian views than the visits 'of Australia’s Minister to a more frequently held meeting of the Defence Committee than hitherto. Australians may envy the Canadian’s influence, which must come through her new position. The ‘Telegraph’ says: “Canada has taken the logical course ensuring fear that Britain shall retain naval prominence which ensuring security in every part of the Empire. The stipulation that the Canadian Minister joins the Defence Committee is a rnomontuous ’step, and marks the entrance of Canada to a now status, the status of a sister —a stage which is none the less autonomous because she had co-operat-ed freely and frankly with Britain. Melbourne, December 9. Mr. Fisl icr declines to discuss Mr. Borden’s offer at present.