POLICY IN THE PACIFIC.

Auckland Star, Volume LXV, Issue 9, 11 January 1934, Page 6

POLICY IN THE PACIFIC.

Recently a member of the House of Lords asked what was the British Government's policy regarding China. The answer was that it was one of "friendliness." This is obscurely comprehensive, to say the least.. The question asked by the noble lord, however, is important if for no other reason thai} that it indicates that, even at the hub of Empire legislation, the Pacific policy of the British Government is by no means an open book. Periodically, as occasion seems to demand, we are solemnly informed that the Dominions are consulted on matters of British foreign policy. Both New Zealand and Australia are now committed to heavily-increased naval and military expenditure. What is the policy dictating this added financial burden? Is it not more than a little remarkable that in these hard-up, down-at-heel times, when every penny counts, not one responsible politician or newspaper has queried, let alone discussed, British foreign policy in the Pacific. No one seems even remotely concerned about whom we are rearming to fight against or for. J.Y.D.