AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE.

Colonist, Volume L, Issue 12166, 14 February 1908, Page 4

AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE.

Melbourne, February 13

Mr G. H. Reid, leader of the Federal Opposition, criticising Mr Deakin's defanncejoropoaals, said the idea of com puleory service was repugnant and the proposed system appeared to be very largely confined to young men between 18 and 21 years of age which was an outrage. By reason of having persons depending on them, those young fellows could not afford to go into training for nothing, and they should be paid. As to the naval defence proposal, Mr Reid said it was a scheme that would not do at all. What was wanted was to put life into the present system, and appoint as . head of the forces a man who had practical experience' of war.