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benefit can be derived, a probable one. The defence of the Port River against torpedo-boats attempting to inflict damage at the docks, &c., of Port Adelaide must rest on the proposed Q.F. gun or guns, the field-guns, and the electric light referred to above. The proposal to utilize floating obstructions in the river for this purpose does not commend itself to the Committee; such obstructions might impede the ingress and egress of friendly vessels.
8. The Naval Commandant considers that that part of Report IX of the Joint Naval and Military Committee on Defence, which deals with the sub- mission of Schemes for submarine mining defence to the Admiralty, applies only to ports in the United Kingdom, Crown Colonies, and Imperial coaling stations.
The Colonial Defence Committee consider it most important that the Admiralty should be fully informed and consulted as to proposed schemes of Submarine Mine Defence in all parts of the Empire, and that at ports abroad the mines should not be laid without the concurrence of the Senior Naval Officer. Unless this is done it will be impossible for Her Majesty's ships to run into ports defended in this manner with the freedom which they would otherwise use.
9. The Committee concur in the recommendation of the Naval Com- mandant and of the Local Defence Committee that the opinion of the Naval Commander-in-chief should be taken by the Government of South Australia as to the time when Traffic Regulations are to be put in force.
10. The Committee further concur in the proposal of the Naval Com- mandant that immediate provision should be made for signalling service between ships and the forts.
February 16, 1897.3
(Signed)
M. NATHAN, Secretary,
Colonial Defence Committee.
266
Approved by stw.
n
27.2.97
Ki
Australucia
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SECRET.