NAVAL DEFENCE

Waikato Times, Volume 122, Issue 20426, 17 February 1938, Page 6

NAVAL DEFENCE

IMPORTANCE STRESSED NEW ZEALAND'S SHARE training ship urged ny Telegraph.— Press Association; WELLIXGTUN, Wednesday The need for adequate naval defence to maintain the sea routes of the Empire was stressed by Commander C. H. T. Palmer, R.N.Y.R. retired,, president, at the Navy League conference when delegates of the New Zealand branches of the League met to-day. Commander Palmer referred to New Zealand's share in naval defence and expressed the opinion that the Dominion could offer the British Government the cost of a cruiser and also undertake the training of enough men to man such a vessel. New Zealand should also provide herself with mine sweepers, minelayers and motor torpedo boats for coastal defence. lie said the conference was held to establish closer co-operation between the branches and to intensify interest in the League’s activities. Both or these matters were important in view of the decline of the sea spirit in the Dominion. Delegates were welcomed by the Mayor. Mr T. C. A. Hislop. Greater contribution b> New Zealand to [lie Nnvv was supported and the encouragement and fostering of the sea spirit in New Zealand, with every endeavour to increase the number of New Zealanders in both Hie. Royal Navy and the Merchant Service, the mean's to this end being set out. The Government is to he approached to establish a training ship in one of the harbours.