DEFENCE.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXV, Issue 78, 9 April 1913, Page 6

DEFENCE.

CANADA’S NAVAL POLICY.

PRAISE FOR AUSTRALIA

[By Electric Telegraph—Copyright] [United Press Association.] Ottawa, April 8. Sir Wilfrid Laurier, in the course of the Navy debate, said that the Admiralty had apparently adopted the policy of concentration, leaving the overseas Dominions unprotected. The Government had entirely abandoned the Canadian navy policy, intending to replace it with a policy of contribution to tho British fleet, in emergency. It was a cry of make-believe importance iu the development of national pride. He recognised that Australia, who followed tho correct policy of a local navy, was undoubtedly doing tho best in the Empire’s interest. He quoted Messrs Allen and Fisher, Lord Denman and Sir George ileid, in proof of the fact that local navies were the best. Imperial federation was a great idea, but the conditions were premature. It would only come when the Canadians were prepared to surrender their financial independence to Parliament itself, which was not responsible to the Canadians. He declared that the Liberals intended to pursue their obstructions. Mr Borden, replying, said that the Government denied absolutely any policy of contribution. A permanent policy was yet to be developed. The three ships were merely an acknowledgment of Britain’s care for the Dominion and for assistance towards the present great development. The ships could be brought home any time, on notice being given. It was not possible for Canada to remain neutral during.war, as Sir Wilfrid Laurier had suggesed. An emergency policy was the best. It met the wishes of the Admiralty, and had their full concurrence.