NO ALLIANCE

Evening Star, Issue 22879, 10 February 1938, Page 11

NO ALLIANCE

BRITAIN AND AMERICA STATEMENT BY MR CORDELL HULL Press Association —By Telegraph— Copyright WASHINGTON, February 9. Mr Cordell Hull sent a letter to the Senate stating that no alliance, agreement, or understanding exists or is contemplated with Britain, and there is no understanding, expressed or implied, to use the United States Navy in conjunction with any other nation, or that the navy should police, patrol, or be sent to any particular waters. TWO VIEWPOINTS AMERICAN PRESS COMMENT. NEW YORK, February 9. (Received February 10, at 10.30 a.m.) The New York ‘ Sun,’ in a leader, says: “Mr Cordell Hull’s categorical denials regarding a United States understanding or agreement with any Power should put an end to the unbased belief entertained by many persons that Britain has succeeded in enlisting the United States as an ally for defence of the British Asiatic Empire. This belief has been assiduously cultivated by British propagandists. There has been much talk of common responsibilities and parallel courses. United States acceptance of Australia’s invitation to send a naval squadron to the celebrations gaye an opportunity for surprising tales to gain circulation. When soon after this it was announced that the squadron would he present lor the ceremonies at Singapore even more amazing tales went to Congressmen, who are not less gullible than others. Whatever measure of acceptance the rumours won in the Capitol, they were recognised as appropriate pegs on which to hang questions. These questions are at present answered, and the answers are what sensible Americans confidently expected.” The New York ‘ Times,’ on the contrary, continues a series of leaders on parallel lines, stating: “ It is unnecessary and’ unwarranted to look for an ulterior motive in consultations with Britain regarding the Orient. The two have similar interests and have to face common risks and dangers. It would be criminal folly for them to fail to explore each other’s purposes and methods, but the goal is not in some secret understanding. It is rather tq seek openly and independently but by similar action when the circumstances are similar to take the most effective steps possible to protect national interests. There is bound to be consultation between Britain and America, not only regarding the Par East, but other troubled areas, whenever a threat to peafce arises or a treaty which both have signed is thrown aside. This is not because a deep plot is being hatched; it is because the two great democracies have a common interest in an orderly and a stable' wor:d.”

IH EVENT OF TROUBLE WITH JAPAN BRITAIN READY TO HELP AMERICA. LONDON, February 9. (Received February 10, at 11.15 a.m.) Professor Gilbert Murray, addressing National Liberals, declared: “I have reason to believe that Britain has assured the American Government that she is ready immediately to support it in any action which may take place in respect to Japan, facing any risk.”