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19. If, therefore, the Admiralty are of opinion that in time of war St. Helena might become an important coaling station for the British mercantile marine on the Cape route, it would appear that the question of the repair of the wharf at Jamestown is one which calls for the early consideration of His Majesty's Government.

Proposals for the formation of a local defence force.

20. The proposals for the formation of a local defence force, which are referred to in paragraph 1 of this Memorandum, suggest the raising in the Colony of a small unit on the lines of a partially paid Militia force, and of another small unit on the lines of a Volunteer force. The proposals involve the recruiting of a partially paid or Militia unit from the casual labourer class, and the raising of a Volunteer unit from amongst the labourers in the Colony who are permanently employed.

21. Not only do the suggestions show that the proposed scheme must depend to a great extent on the pecuniary benefit that can be offered to intending militiamen and volunteers, but it is stated that, on account of the large proportion of able- bodied men and promising youths who emigrate from the Colony," the maintenance of the establishment of any local force could only be relied upon between mails."

22. Past efforts to raise and maintain Volunteer corps in St. Helera have not met with a great measure of succes, and the last force of this description that existed in the Colony was disbanded in the year 1906 on account of the want of enthusiasm shown by its members and of the general inefficiency of the unit.

28. In the circumstances, and in view of the fact that, owing to the financial condition of St. Helena, the cost of any local force would have to be defrayed from Imperial funds, any attempt under present conditions to raise a defence force in the Colony would appear to be of doubtful expedience.

Protection of cable landing place.

24. As regards the defence of the cable landing place at St. Helena. In their Memorandum No. 452 M, dated the 11th November, 1912, on the Protection of Cable Landing Places at St. Helena, Rodrigues, and Direction Island, the Oversos Defence Committee have recommended that arrangements should be made with the Eastern Telegraph Company for the arming of their cable staff at St. Helena for this purpose.

Questions for decision.

25. In conclusion, the Oversea Defence Committee desire to submit the following questions for the consideration of the Committee of Imperial Defence :---

(u.) Have the strategical conditions so changed since the year 1906 as to make it desirable that a garrison should be maintained at St. Helena in time of peace? (b.) If the answer to (a) is in the affirmative, are the Admiralty or War Office to

be held responsible for providing such a garrison ?

March 10, 1913.

(Signed)

8. H. WILSON, Secretary,

Oversea Defence Committee.

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