3 APRIL 1909, Page 2

There is one point in regard to New Zealand's offer

as to which it is well there should be no misunderstanding. The British people are clearly determined that New Zealand's gift shall be treated purely as a gift of a battleship to the Navy, and in no sense as a relief of the British taxpayer. We must adopt whatever programme of construction seems to us essential to national safety; and New Zealand's Dreadnought,' or any other 'Dreadnought' bestowed upon us by a daughter- nation, must be an addition. New Zealand wants to feel that even if we have made ourselves secure at sea, she is giving us something which will "make assurance doubly sure." That is the spirit in which the ship is offered, and in which it will be accepted.