PACIFIC OFFENSIVE.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 63, Issue 172, 3 May 1943, Page 3

PACIFIC OFFENSIVE.

PREPARATIONS BY JAPANESE.

STRATEGIC BASES ESTABLISHED NEW YORK, May 2. Japan is preparing for unparalleled large-scale operations by all her forces, states Tokio. The Japanese press chief (General Yahagi) says that Japan has completed the establishment of strategic bases north and north-east of Australia, including Timor, New Guinea, and the'Solomons. Australia, he said, was in an extremely nervous condition, anticipating these operations for which the new bases would pave the way.

The New York journal “American” says that if the Japanese offensive engulfs the Pacific outposts it will not be because Washington lacked information. “A long process of military leaders —Americans, Australians, and New Zealanders —have trekked to Washington describing the danger and pleading for help,” says the journal.

Colonel Kaye, aid to Governor Stainback, of Hawaii, says that the danger is so terrific and so immediate in the Pacific that its real nature cannot he disclosed until steps have been taken to meet it.

“I do not know whether the Japanese intend to attempt an invasion of Australia, nor does anyone else,” said the Australian Minister of External Affairs (Dr. H. V. Evatt) to-day, “'but the possibility cannot be excluded and must be guarded against.” He added that the Allies would counter with new blows against Japan.

The Berlin radio says the world Is on the eve of very important decisions in the north Pacific. It adds: “The Aleutians, will soon becoome a major battle area. The Japanese are thoroughly consolidating their bases before launching large-scale operations. The Americans are also feverishly concentrating on the completion of their bases in the Aleutians. All signs indicate that American preparations for a counter-offensive against the Japanese are nearing completion..