Conversation so far:
What was Gustaf best known for in the public?
Gustaf V was considered to have German sympathies during World War I.
How did the public feel about his sympathies with Germany ?
Another of Gustaf V's objectives was to dispel suspicions that he wanted to bring Sweden into the war on Germany's side.
Did he side with any other countries beside Germany ?
On 18 December 1914, he sponsored a meeting in Malmo with the other two kings of Scandinavia to demonstrate unity.
Were there any controversies during his reign ?
At first, Gustaf V seemed to be willing to accept parliamentary rule.
Did he cause problems with his parliment ?
Gustaf appointed Liberal leader Karl Staaff as Prime Minister.
However, during the runup to World War I, the elites objected to Staaff's defence policy.

Question: Did the elites want less defence or more ?
Self-contained rewrite: Did the elites want less defense or more?