The Arming Of Fiji

Government is Active—But No Details

r:E Government of Fiji seemed to be doing little in regard to local de lences —although other Pacific Terri tories are busy, in this regard—so the Fiji Chamber of Commerce, in May, ask ed that the civilian population be given some indication of how it might co-op erate with military, naval and air au thorities in providing the Colony with an organisation against invaders or raiders.

It was admitted by the mechants that Fiji might not long resist an attack in force, but they urged that a well-trained local force, with adequate arms, could at least prevent the seizure of the port of Suva, with its huge wealth of supplies and materials, by raiding warships. They pointed out that Suva, if captured by an enemy, would serve admirably as a base for an attack upon New Zealand and Australia.

The Government subsequently made certain information available which serv ed to allay, in some part, the anxiety of the civilians.

Arrangements have been made for the quick removal from Suva, in an emerg ency, of young children, their mothers and aged and infirm people. A national register had been considered but, as the Defence Department already has a re cord of able-bodied men who might be needed, it was held to be not necessary.

Defence plans necessarily will be kept secret, owing to the “key” position of Fiji. But it can be said that, before very long, a useful equipment of light naval craft and aircraft will be avail able in Fiji, supported by an adequate local organisation.

Australia is foolishly publishing every detail of her Port Moresby fortifications, etc. Fiji will not do that.

Torpedo Motor-Boats [

A new kind of swift and deadly motor boat, carrying torpedoes and anti-air craft and machine-guns, with a cruising speed of nine and an emergency speed of forty knots, has been perfected by the British Admiralty, and is likely to be seen in the South Pacific before long.

Cockatoo Dock, Sydney, is building six of them. The well-equipped private boat builders in Australia could construct them. They are 70 feet long, and they carry two officers and seven men. They seem to be ideal craft for patrol duty in the Pacific Islands.