CAB9-1_PT1 — Page 349

Page 349

fully alive to the fact that general reductions in establishments and incom- plete training are measures which should only be resorted to in the last extremity, and that they involve a subsequent total expenditure, on what will practically be the formation of a new army, greater than the amounts saved by neglecting the maintenance of one already existing. It is practi- cally equivalent to the sacrifice of an insurance policy to avoid payment of premiums.

2. The Colonial Defence Committee do not propose to criticize the details of the Report of the Commandant, as they refer to arrangements which will mostly be altered on the passing of the Act already referred to, or consist in recommendations involving the expenditure of money which is not available. They note with much pleasure that the generally unsatisfactory condition of things which the Report discloses has brought to light one feature from which they augur well for the future of the South Australian forces. The Militia have held parades without pay, and the Volunteers voluntary encampments, providing their own rations. Such a spirit of patriotism on the part of the troops, and desire to help the Government, should do much to surmount the difficulties in maintaining efficiency.

3. The Commandant states that the Bill now under consideration, regulating the altered conditions of service for the South Australian Forces, embodies all the principles recommended by the Sydney Federal Military Conference, and suggests that it should serve as a basis for similar legislation throughout Australia, "thus practically establishing the machinery for Federal defence whenever required."

The Committee consider that the embodiment of these principles in the draft Bill is an important step in the direction of Federal Military Defence, and an excellent precedent for the other Australian Colonies. They trust that these principles have been or will be approved by the Legislature.

4. The Commandant states that a Scheme of Defence, prepared during the year, has been forwarded for the consideration of the Defence Committee at home.

The Defence Scheme has not yet been received by the Committee.

M. NATHAN, Secretary,

(Signed)

December 20, 1895.

Page 349

Colonial Defence Committee.

PRINTED AT THE FOREIGN OFFICE BY T. HARRISON.-23/12/95.

Page 349