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In a Memorandum of the 16th May, 1890, the Colonial Defence Com- mittee dealt with the Reports of Major-General Edwards as a whole, and laid down the principles which should guide the defence of the Australasian Colonies. As regards New Zealand, they concurred generally in Major-General Edwards' proposals.
No scheme of defence, such as now exists in nearly every Colony of the Empire, has been prepared in New Zealand. It appears to have resulted that the general requirements of the Colony, as well as the strength of force neces- sary to man the defences of the ports, have not been sufficiently considered.
Captain Moore states that although "there is plenty of good fighting material amongst the Volunteers, no one seems to know what form of attack they would have to meet, and the annual camps are not utilized as they might be for concentrating in various ports on the coast to repel a raid... There is sufficient material both in men and guns for the protection of the Colony, but the condition of the personnel for want of proper organization and com- petent officers is quite lamentable."
The Colonial Defence Committee learn with great satisfaction that it has been decided to appoint a Commandant from the army for a term of years, and they are convinced that this step will lead to the removal of the defects which have been frequently pointed out.
The Colony of New Zealand has liberally provided for the fixed defences of its ports. The armaments have been kept in a state of efficiency, which reflects the greatest credit upon Major Douglas. But, in the absence of an organization providing trained and disciplined men, the ports would be unable to derive full advantage from their powerful armaments.
As pointed out by the Colonial Defence Committee, the needs of the Colony are not such as to call for any great military expenditure. An organi zation suited to these needs, a sufficiency of men trained in the several duties entailed, and a carefully prepared scheme of defence under which the whole force would be able to fall into place at short notice, are the requirements which the Colonial Defence Committee desire to urge upon the Government of New Zealand, as necessary in order that the Colony may be adequately prepared for the contingencies which war would involve.
(Signed)
G. S. CLARKE, Secretary,
October, 23, 1891.
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Colonial Defence Committee.
PRINTED AT THE FOREIGN OFFICH BY T. HARRISON.—24/10/91.
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