U.S. LEGATION IN AUSTRALIA

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 31, 31 October 1938, Page 9

U.S. LEGATION IN AUSTRALIA

American Suggestions

RUMOURS CURRENT IN WASHINGTON

Need To Develop Markets

By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. (Received October 30. 8.30 p.m.)

WASHINGTON, October 29. Rumours are current that the United States is seriously considering the opening of a legation in Australia if Australia consents to appoint a Minister in America. Discussing the suggestions, the Columbia Trade Press Service observes: “Many people here still think that Australia is a land of cannibals, sheep and jungle. With the appointment of the youngest Prince of the House of Windsor as Governor-General the time seems propitious for a real campaign to sell the American public the idea that modern cities like Sydney and Melbourne exist.” However, judging from the comment of Senator William King, a member of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, American supporters of tlie Legation proposal are actuated by a realistic and domestic motive. Senator King stressed to the Columbia Service that the United States needed to develop markets, pointing out that her foreign trade dropped from six billion dollars to under two billion in 1932.

“It is important that we regain that trade,” lie said. “There are vast, comparatively untapped markets in Australia. Besides, tlie country deserves tlie same diplomatic dignity as Canada and South Africa. We should send a good business man as .Minister. With Mr. Cordell Hull’s ideals, lie would make an ideal salesman to explore Australian markets.” 'Tlie Columbia Service, however, pointing out tlie rising trade balance favouring America, sagely comments that the Australian view doubtless would be that Australia needs salesmen more than America. An Australian official told flic service that an Australian Legation was a possibility, Imt added that Legations were expensive and Australians were very Scotch. “I fear I will, be a very old man before the Minister actually arrives.” he added.