AMERICA AND WAR

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 62, Issue 86, 22 January 1942, Page 5

AMERICA AND WAR

ALMOST ALL PARTS OF GLOBE. “DOING THE BEST WE CAN” STRENGTHENING THE PACIFIC (United Press Association—Copyright.! (Ree. 10.10.) WASHINGTON, Jan. 20. President Roosevelt at a press conference said that the United States was contributing to the war against the Axis in almost every part of the globe.

Air Roosevelt’s remarks are understood to be intended to reassure China and Australia, where some uneasiness is reported regarding the possibility of priority being given to the battle against Hitler over the battle against Japan in the matter of American aid. It is reported that when his attention was called to these reports Mr Roosevelt replied: “Nobody need have any fear at all as we are doing the best, we can.’’ The Chinese Ambassador, Air Roosevelt asserted, fully understands the situation.

While declining to discuss details Air Roosevelt declared: “Very excellent progress is being made to strengthen the position of the united nations in the South-west Pacific.” Air Roosevelt conceded it was correct that supplies and reinforcements were being sent, but lie could not go into details.

Senator George, in a short-wave message to China, said: “Developments will demonstrate that England and the United States propose to give all possible assistance in conjunction with China in the war in the middle and southern Pacific. Your doubts and fears are understandable to me, and yet are pot correctly founded. AVlien their basis is analysed in the light of plain facts you will see there is no foundation whatever for any doubt of the comradeship and fullest co-operation of your sister nation across the Pacific.”

Lieutenant-Colonel Swift, of the General Staff, testified before tho House Military Affairs Committee today that the Army needs 12,000 Avomen immediately in the aeroplane interceptor service and other branches of the Army. It is already employing 6000 women volunteers. They do not receive pay but it is believed they would be more efficient if official!v controlled.