7

A.—4

While a more equitable distribution between its members of the cost of the League was considered essential to its future, there was a general appreciation of its work and of the League's claim to the support of the British Empire as a, step forward in the regulation of international affairs. V. Egypt. Close consideration was given to the question of British policy in Egypt, and the future status of that country, and general agreement was reached regarding the principles by which His Majesty's Government should be guided in the negotiations with the Egyptian delegation. VI. Imperial Defence. (a.) Naval. Several plenary meetings and several meetings of the Prime Ministers alone, will) the Secretary of State for India, were devoted to considering the naval defence of the Empire, and the following resolution was adopted : — " That, while recognizing the necessity of co-operation among the various portions of the Empire to provide such naval defence as may prove to be essential lor security, and while holding that equality with the naval strength of any other Power is a minimum standard for that purpose, this Conference is of opinion that the method and expense of such co-operation are matters for the final determination of the several Parlia/ments concerned, and that any recommendations'"thereon should be deferred until after the coming Conference on Disarmament." In addition, a number of useful consultations took place between the Admiralty and the representatives of the several Dominions and India, at which were discussed such matters as the local co-operation of each Dominion in regard to the provision of oil-tanks, local naval defence, &c. (b.) Military and Air Defence. A discussion took place on the military and air defence of the Empire, and the views of the General and Air Staffs on the principles which should be adhered to in order to ensure co-operation in these matters were laid before Ministers. VII. Imperial Communications. The question of improved communication throughout the Empire, including air, telegraphy, telephony, and shipping, was considered, and a special committee under the chairmanship of the Secretary of State for the Colonies was appointed to go into the whole question. This committee reported to the main Conference, and eventually the following conclusions were arrived at: — (a.) Air. " The Conference, having carefully considered the report* of the expert SubCommittee on Imperial Communications, are of opinion that the proposals contained therein should be submitted for the consideration of the Governments and Parliaments of the different parts of the Empire. " On the understanding that the cost involved will be in the region of £l ,800 per month, they recommend that, pending such consideration, the existing material, so far as useful for the development of Imperial air communications, should here tamed." (b.) Imperial Wireless Scheme. " It is agreed that His Majesty's Government should take steps for the erection of the remaining stations for which they are responsible, as soon as the stations are designed ; that the Governments of Australia, the Union of South Africa, and India should take similar action so far as necessary, and that the Governments of Canada and New Zealand should also co-operate." * The report is printed as Appendix 111.