The Dominion MONDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1940. THE BOMBARDMENT OF NAURU ISLAND

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 81, 30 December 1940, Page 6

The Dominion MONDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1940. THE BOMBARDMENT OF NAURU ISLAND

In their bombardment of Nauru Island the Germans were simply perpetuating the evil reputation gained by them in this and the last war P for complete and contemptuous disregard for the rules of civihzed international warfare. This island is held in trust for thej native pop lation by Great Britain under mandate from the League of Nahons It was in no position to defend itself, for the piovision was expressly prohibited by the terms of the mandate, lhe attac was, therefore, on all fours with the bombing of defenceless civilian in open towns, indelible crimes of which Germany stands convicted the eyes of Christian civilization. . According to the latest reports, the restoration of wireless co - munication with the island has established that the damage is apparently less than had been at first supposed and that no lives were Host. There now seems no doubt, however, that the raider was sai i g under false colours, that both name and flag were those of a Poivc: , Japan, with which Britain is at peace. This is a violation o The Hague Convention which prohibits the improper use o a g truce, national flags or military ensigns. It is an abuse which might conceivably lead to misunderstandings between nations not at wax. As practised by the Germans this discreditable trick has unquestionably the double purpose of scoring an immediate success and at the same time setting the scene for international friction. _ The activities of the enemy raider, or raiders, m the Westein Pacific naturally must arouse concern, especially as this latest incident has followed so closely the recent attack on shipping lying oft. JNauru Island. The Australian Minister of the Navy, Mr. Hughes, assures the public that warships are on the track of the enemy. It is o e hoped that the trail will not be lost, and that an end will be put to an enterprise which has been producing disquieting results. Hie naval units in this hemisphere have had a difficult and arduous task to perform, and under serious disadvantages. Demands in Bui ope have weakened our naval resources in the Pacific, which is an immense area providing unique advantages in its vast archipelago foi cover and secret bases. There are indications, however, that the navy in these waters has lately been supplemented. In another statement 111. Hughes informed the public that the Australian Navy for local service was now available up to 90 per cent, of its strength. It was a very guarded statement, suggesting something more than met the eye.