OCCUPATION OF JAPAN

Press, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 25089, 22 January 1947, Page 7

OCCUPATION OF JAPAN

BRITISH ATTITUDE EXPLAINED REASON FOR WITHDRAWING TROOPS (Specisfi Correspondent N.Z.P.A.) (Rec. 8.30 p.m.) LONDON, Jan. 21. The correspondent of the European edition of the “New York Herald-Tri-bune” cabling from Tokyo says that When the Chief of the Air Staff (Lord Tedder) visited Japan two months ago he discussed with General MacArthur the possibility of withdrawing some British occupation troops. Lord Tedder is reported at the time to have informed General MacArthur that the British Government needed the troops elsewhere, ahd also to relieve its manpower difficulties. It was further pointed out that while Australia and New Zealand, because of their geographical position, take a deep personal interest in everything relating to Japan’s future, the United Kingdom’s interest is mainly confined to the commercial aspects of that future. While these reasons are considered the principal ones behind the announced withdrawal of a British brigade, it is also felt in Tokyo that for Some time the British authorities in Japan have recognised that the occupation was an American “show” and that although they recognise the necessity for (his they, in some degree, resent the subordinate part played by the British forces.

They therefore feel that rather than continue to accept meekly policies with which they disagree, the United Kingdom should dissociate itself 3s much as possible from the occupation. Australia and New Zealand, on the other hand, while also resenting the position in which the British are placed, feel that they have too much at stake to withdraw a single man until it becomes necessary.