1614
THE NEW ZEALAND GAZETTE.
No. 5

The war in the Far East has not been without its lessons. Distance from the western countries gave security, but the developments in Eastern Asia should not be disregarded. Though trouble in the near future is very improbable, still it is our duty to be prepared for every emergency.

The scheme respecting naval defence contained in the first proposals submitted by the Lords of the Admiralty to the Prime Ministers of the Australian Commonwealth and New Zealand in London was at that time considered necessary; but, on grounds of economy, other proposals, providing for a weaker squadron, were adopted. It is now worthy of consideration whether the original scheme should not be reverted to, thus again augmenting the subsidy payable; and, if so, provision should be made for the increased expenditure entailed.

I am pleased to understand from my Ministers that in respect to ammunition and the munitions of war the colony is better supplied than at any time during its history.

As you are aware, the Naval Agreement is in force, and the first experience of recruiting has exceeded expectations, especially in regard to the class of men offering for the Naval Reserve and for the drill-ships. The result will be that in a few years you will have a well-trained body of men ready and efficient to man the war-vessels, or to meet any emergency that may arise.

It was intimated to the Imperial Government that it would be pleasing to the people of this colony if one of the war-ships on the Australian Station should be placed at our disposal for use as a training-ship when withdrawn from commission. I am happy to say that the gunboat “Sparrow” has been granted for the purpose, and may be expected in the colony at any time. Immediately on arrival she will be prepared for the purpose for which she is intended—namely, the training of youths in seamanship. When they have received the requisite training, they will be available for the cruisers and warships on the Australian Station and for the mercantile marine. The dearth of British-bred seamen in the colony will by this means, to some extent at least, be provided for.

In accordance with a general desire, and with a view of encouraging rifle shooting, a team of marksmen under the command of Colonel Collins was selected, and proceeded to England to represent the colony at the Bisley meeting. The best possible selection was made, and there is every prospect of their acquitting themselves with credit to the colony.

My Ministers are of the opinion that it would be pleasing to the people of this colony, and especially to the officers and men who served under him in South Africa, and to the Defence Force generally, again to invite Field Marshal Earl Roberts, K.P., G.C.B., G.C.S.I., G.C.I.E., V.C., to visit New Zealand, and to be the guest of the colony. Your concurrence will be invited.

You will be pleased to learn that there is a probability of the troubles existing in the New Hebrides being removed, the Governments of France and Great Britain having appointed a Commission to inquire into the disputed land claims and grievances existing. The correspondence and papers relating thereto will no doubt be laid before you in due course.

Some time ago my Ministers, on behalf of the colony, made a protest to the Secretary of State for the Colonies against the introduction of Chinese to work the Rand mines in the Transvaal. The correspondence on the subject will be placed before you, and an opportunity will be afforded to discuss the question.

As you are aware, Canada is represented in London by a High Commissioner, and power is also given by the Commonwealth of Australia for the institution of a similar office in London. My Ministers are of opinion that it would lend importance to the position if legislation to give power to appoint a High Commissioner for this colony were provided. This matter will be submitted for your consideration.

My responsible Advisers are of the opinion that the time is fast approaching when an alteration should be made in regard to the constitution of the Legislative Council.