SHORTAGE OF CRUISERS

Taranaki Daily News, 16 January 1933, Page 7

SHORTAGE OF CRUISERS

TRADE ROUTES IMPERILLED DIFFICULTY DEMONSTRATED BRITISH NAVAL MANOEUVRE “WAR” IN BAY OF BISCAY By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. London, Jan. 13. Naval manoeuvres were staged covering an attempt by enemy warships to interfere with merchant services and the transport of foodstuffs between two British colonies, popularly regarded as representing Australia and New Zealand. The first day’s operations illustrated the difficulties likely through a shortage of cruisers and destroyers to protect the trade routes. The second day accentuated this position, four merchantmen being “sunk” and only one raiding cruiser sunk.

The mimic warfare, which was staged in the Bay of Biscay, proved how the Australian and New Zealand trade routes would be imperilled in wartime while the shortage of cruisers continues. Twenty merchantmen entered the war area arid seven were captured in three days by three raiders. Two raiders’were sunk, also one cruiser while attacking the raiders. After the Commander-in-Chief confers with the leading officers at Gibraltar a detailed report will be submitted to the Admiralty.