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efficient establishment of the system
utilisa
(1). That each Colony should exploit its inherent recruiting
resources to the utmost so as to raise and maintain on a
volunteer or territorial basis-as may be suitable to the
particular Colony concerned-for the double purpose of
(a) Defence of its own immediate territory.
(b). Furnishing such contingente as may be required and forthcoming to assist in the defence of other more threatened parts of the Empire.
(2). That these troops should be so organized, trained, and
instructed on a uniform system (laid down by the Imperial Genetal
Staff for the whole Empire) that when they are called upon to
act together the highest possible standard of efficiency shall
have been reached.
You will observe that the whole scheme le baned entirely on
the principle of mutual assistance for the purpose of General
Imperial Defence. I dannot hein thinking that if this great idea
of Imperial Unity is once completely graaned by the Colonies
they will realize more clearly the responsibility which reate
upon them na commonent parts of the Empire; and that as a result
we shall find larger numbers forthcoming to fill the ranks of the
Golonial Territorial Contingent and a higher and more uniform
standard of mili'ary efficiency obtained.
I am aware that an impression prevaile in Hong Kong and
elsewhere that if war breaks out and the place is attacked there
will be no lack of able-bodied volunteers ready to take up arms
in its defence. The fact however cannot be too strongly emphasised
that this idea is the outcome of a complete misconception of the
Even in nature, the requirements, and the usages of modern war.
the smallest operation undertaken against trained civilised
soldiers no commander would venture to employ men who had not
previously received training and instruction in discipline, the
use of their weapons, and the methods of modern fighting.
enemy has indeed in the past claimed the right to treat such men
An
as non-combatants and shoot them when captured.
Believe me, dear Sir Frederick,
Yours very sincerely,
(Sd, J.D.P.FRENCH.