FAR EAST CRISIS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22960, 11 February 1938, Page 11

FAR EAST CRISIS

UNITED STATES' YIEW BRITISH CO-OPERATION CONFLICTING OPINIONS • By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright WASHINGTON. Feb. 0 Tho New York Sun, in a leading article, states that the categorical denials of the Secretary of State, Mr. Cordell Hull, that the United States has an understanding or agreement with any Power should end the belief entertained by many persons that Britain has succeeded in enlisting the United States as an ally in the defence of the British Asiatic Empire.

This belief, the newspaper says, has been assiduously cultivated bV British propagandists. There has been much talk of common responsibilities and parallel courses. America's acceptance of Australia's invitation to send a naval squadron to the sesquieentenary celebration gave an opportunity for surprising tales to gain circul.ation, and when, soon after, it was announced that the squadron would be present at tho ceremonies at Singapore, more amazing tales went around among Congressmen and others.

Whatever measure of acceptance these rumours won in Washington, the.v were recognised as appropriate pegs on which to hang questions. These questions are for tho present answered, and the answers are what sensible Americans confidently expected. The New York Times, on the contrary, has continued the series of parallel lines in its editorials. It is unnecessary and unwarranted, is says, to look for any ulterior motive in consultations with Britain regarding the Orient. Tho two Powers have similar interests and face common risks and dangers. It would be criminal folly for them to fail to explore each other's purposes and mothods, but the goal is not some secret understanding. It is rather to seek openly and independently, but by similar action, when circumstances arc similar, and to take the most effective steps possible to protect their national interests.

"There is bound to be consultation between Britain and America," the newspaper continues, "not only on the Far Fast, but on other troubled areas whenever a threat to peace arises or a treaty both have signed is thrown aside.

"This is not because a deep plot is being hatched; it is because two great democracies have a common interest in an orderly and stable world."