TOKIO COMPLAINS

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 126, 21 February 1941, Page 7

TOKIO COMPLAINS

Britain’s Far East Defences PEACEFUL POLICIES REITERATED ( Received February 20. 10.20 p.m.) TOKIO, February 19. The Government spokesman characterized the Australians’ landing at Singapore as "another British demonstration" designed to create the impression that the Far East situation was very critical. He said the British were needlessly and excessively nervous, whereas the situation actually, as. Mr. Ishii pointed out on I uesday. did not warrant alarm. While the British were free to move troops anywhere in their own territory in the event of an attempt to menace Japan then Japan’s attitude would be firm. "Japan lias done nothing to receive warnings from any Power,” he said. "Our policies, including Hie southward region, are entirely peacetul.” The Japanese spokesman in Shanghai declared that Britain’s moves at Singapore were part of a British and American plan to strangle Japan which would be countered with appropriate measures. The spokesman did not amplify his statement beyond hinting Hint Japan intended to speed up Hie Thailand mediation. Washington Decision. The general reaction in Tokio to Hie Washington decision to strengthen the defences of Guam and Samoa is that it represents a part of British and American plans to intimidate Japan which are certain to aggravate Japan-ese-American relations. It is felt that the United States will be sorely responsible iu Hie event of the worst, developments arising. A spokesman said it was natural that Hie Japanese would be concerned about more American defences near Japan. He asked: “VI hen has Japan declared that she would attack southern regions, including Singapore? I think the Jpaauese people are getting tired of such irresponsible statements abroad." It is understood that Tokio’s American school will terminate 40 years' activities in June when the term ends. At present the enrolment is 76 of which 10 are Americans, contrasting with tlie normal ‘2OO. The American school is tbe last of the British and American- managed schools throughout Japan.