CANADA’S NAVY BILL.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXXV, Issue 13052, 21 April 1910, Page 5

CANADA’S NAVY BILL.

INTERESTING DISCUSSION. Press Association.—Teleo-mph —oopvric6it . OTTAWA. April 20, ’ During the discussion in th? committee stages of the Canadian Navy Bill, the Opposition criticised the purchase of the cruiser Niobe, which they claimed was expensive and- obsolete. Sir Wilfred Laurier stated that she cost 1,075,000 dollars and was admirably suited for the training of 425 men and 40 officers. Mr Borden, Leader of the Opposition, in discussing the clause providing that the navy should not go into active service without an order from the Governor-iu-Council, stated that Canadian vessels would be forced to fly a neutral flaw or stiike the British flag. Either course would mean instant separation from the Empire. . Sir Wilfred Laurier replied that Britain in the past had engaged in many wars which were not of such a character that Canada could iustly take part in them. He instanced the Crimean and Egyptian war of 1881, but said that if Britain were seriously endangered a wave of enthusiasm would sweep the Empire and the whole Canadian fleet and the national resources would be placed at the disposal of the Mother Country.