THE EMPIRE’S NAVY.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16735, 17 May 1922, Page 7

THE EMPIRE’S NAVY.

LORD LEE'S CRITICISM. QUESTION OF INITIATIVE. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright United Service. (Received May 17. 9.10 a.m.) LONDON, May 15. The cabled announcement of the New Zealand Defence Minister’s attitude on Lord Lee’s speech raises the question of initiative. The Admiralty, hitherto, has been respectful to the susceptibilities of the Dominions, and it hesitates JLo make the first move, hoping that the Dominions will take tlie initiative now. It is considered likely that following the New Zealand hint, a. memorandum will be drawn up setting out the requirements following "the Washington Conference. IThs, naturally, is most confidential, and it will doubtless receive the attention of Mr Lloyd George after his return.

During a recent lecture in London the First Lord of the Admiralty, Lord Lee, said the he regretted the attitude of the Dominions towards naval do fence. He recalled the fact that at the last Imperial Conference the Dominions agreed to the maintenance of ?. navy os the common concern of the Empire, and, therefore, the burden should he shared in. proportions which would be settled after the Washington Conference. So far the Dominions had not assisted Great Britain to bear the Crushing burden. The result was that thd British taxpayer alone was footing the bill for the maintenance of the navy in defence of the commerce, trade and liberties of the Empire, including those of the Dominions. Great Britain was staggering along, hoping that the Dominions would open their hearts and pockets before it was too late. Bir James Allen agreed that tb,> Dominions had not taken their fair share, but he agreed that Australia had observed her bargain prior to war when Britain failed regarding the Pacific. He claimed that New Zetland was now hearing her full share. Referring to this matter. Mr Massev Baid that the apportionment of the cost would probably be a matter for consideration at the first Empire Conference following the , Washington Conference, but any arrangement made then would be subject to ratification by the Parliament of the Empire.