Mr. Deakin, who outlined his programme at the first sitting
of the Federal Parliament since the recent change in the Ministry, spoke in detail of the proposals relating to Imperial defence. Colonel Foxton, who represents the Commonwealth at the forthcoming Conference, has been instructed to consult with the Admiralty on the marine defence of the ports and coasts of Australia by the most effective vessels, "manned and officered by Australians trained to the standard of the Royal Navy," and on the construction of the necessary docks and shipyards. Mr. Deakin went on to state that the Government's policy in respect of land defence would be founded on universal training. " A Military College, a School of Musketry, and probably a primary Naval College would be established to train officers, and the counsel of one of the most experienced British Generals would be sought for with regard to the training and disposition of Australia's adult citizen soldiers." These assurances, excellent in themselves, would be more satisfactory if Mr. Deakin's position were better secured. Unfortunately the circumstances of his return to power warrant the anticipation of Reuter's representative at Melbourne that the Session will be a stormy one.
Previous page
