BRITAIN AND U.S.A.

Evening Post, Volume CXXIII, Issue 19, 23 January 1937, Page 9

BRITAIN AND U.S.A.

TRADE TREATY IDEA |

ASSURANCES REQUIRED j

IN EVENT OF WAR

United Tress Association- By Elcotric Telegraph—Copyrlfht. WASHINGTON, January 21. It is .fairly well authenticated tbat Britain,, in formulating any treaty with the United States, will wish to receive assurance oi America's position in the event of a European war. Certain Senatorial groups have begun a movement to make impossible the sale not only of war materials, but also of any commodities even on the so-called cash and carry basis, to any belligerent m the event of hostilities in which the United States is not participating. Furthermore, Britain is not satisnea wth her position in the American credit market as a result of the Johnson Act to end war debts. This also is an essential matter for settlement as a preliminary to any treaty. Congressional opposition to sharp reductions will be enormous, but it is believed President Roosevelt's leadership will be sufficient to overcome it. The President naturally has many tactical problems to face .in formulating an agreement which will bo satisfactory to Britain, acceptable to ihe Senate, and generally further American trade. His first and most difficult hurdle is the neutrality law. It is understood that he is exercising every device to prevent Congress from renewing the resolution on any other basis but on one granting him the widest discretionary powers. Victory on this head will go a long way towards reassuring Britain that she will not find herself deprived of essential raw materials here in the event of conflict. Other matters at the impending conference then will offer new formidable barriers.. i