PACIFIC DEFENCE.

Taranaki Daily News, 28 October 1919, Page 5

PACIFIC DEFENCE.

LORD JELLICOE'S PLANS,

NO WAR CLOUDS. "A PREMATURE SCHEME." • By Telegraph.—Press A&m.—Copyright. London, Oct. 24. The opinion is expressed in Government circles that Lord Jellicoe's proposals are necessarily lengthy, but it is considered that they may perhaps be substantially modified in view of the present urgent demand for national economy, thus enabling the Empire to regain something equivalent to the pre-war position. A well-known admiral is convinced that there is no possibility of a serious war during the next ten years. Britain's commitments will probably necessitate greater military than naval expenditure for providing oversea garrisons. While it is impossible to hope that the navy estimates will shrink to the prewar level, unless there is something in the nature of world-wide disarmament, it is argued, nevertheless, that Lord Jellicoe's scheme is premature. There is no reason for establishing a Par Eastern fleet larger than that in the Atlantic. The expenses attached to such a fleet will be stupendous, even if the capital ships are maintained in reserve. The admiral propounds the view that America is the only Power that could hope to touch Britain at sea, and there is no question of any but the friendliest relations in that quarter. Therefore what would it matter if America carried out a great building programme. Moreover the Dominions have to consider the heavy cost of their share.

Australian gunnery experts suggest that as the Australian and New Zealand requirements are purely defensive it is doubtful whether a fleet consisting of large costly ships is necessary. A simpler, more effective and cheaper plan of defence would be to have a numerous submarine fleet and the most modern forts armed with the highest-powered guns, whose value has been demonstrated on the battlefields of France. Strategic railways are one of the most important factors.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.