BRITAIN’S WEAKENED NAVY

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXVII, Issue 19627, 23 October 1933, Page 2

BRITAIN’S WEAKENED NAVY

OUTSPOKEN CRITICISM AROUSES INTEREST. STRONG DEMANDS FOR ACTION. Onlted Press Association —By Electric Telegraph—Copyright (Received October 22, 6.30 p.m.) LONDON, October 21. The speeches of Lord Beatty and Admiral Sir Ernest Chatfield, have aroused considerable interest. The Admiralty is reticent, but naval circles generally are confident that a shipbuilding programme, extending over several years, and providing for a substantial increase in cruiser and other light tonnage will be introduced early in the new year. “The Daily Telegraph” says that Lord Beatty’s warning cannot be disregarded, but the Government and the nation must count the cost of heavy re-armament. The outlay cannot come into the same budget as lower income tax. Moreover, others will be asking for more money, but the Government may be assured of national support for whatever is necessary to keep the seas safe for merchant shipping. ANGLO-AMERICAN BICKERING. BRITAIN BLAMED FOR NAVAL RACE. Onlted Press Association—By Electrlo Telegraph—Copyright WASHINGTON, October 19. . The Navy League of the United States has published a sensational open letter to the Navy League of the British Empire, taking exception to Sir John Simon’s recent references to the American plans to built 10,000-ton cruisers. The letter states that the Navy League of the United States is "being forced reluctantly to the conclusion that, while your statesmen continue to say that war between us is unthinkable, they apparently keep their minds always on such a contingency. In the event of our engagement In a war in which the British would remain neutral, Britain is indifferent to the outcome. This conclusion is likewise strengthened by the British attack on the mail subventions granted to our merchant fleet.” It concludes by stating: “We are hopeful that candour on both sides will serve to reconcile our views.” Co-operation Essential. The American Navy League’s letter told the British Navy League that continued antagonism by Britain to the naval building policy of the United States would block the “absolutely essential” co-operation between the two nations. The letter is signed by Mr N. M. Hubbard, Jun, president, and will be delivered formally on Friday in London. The League has no official connection with the Government here.