THE ANTARCTIC

Greymouth Evening Star, 23 June 1928, Page 5

THE ANTARCTIC

OPEN FOR OCCUPATION. LONDON, June 8. The British Government, for some time has been considering the whole question of exploration of several Antarctic areas. The discussions particularly concern Australia and New Zealand, in view of their respective interests in Adelie Land and the Ross Sea. It can be stated that there is a definite desire in London that something should be done without delay to further the development of these areas. The Government indicated its attitude on January 20, when, following Sir Douglas Mawson’s statement at Hobart, it expressed its keenness in connection with the development and pointed out that the invitation was still open for Australia to take possession of the Antarctic quadrant. The arrival of Sir Douglas Mawson in London a few days ago, followed by Sir George Wilkins, suggests the possibility of most interesting developments. Sir Douglas Mawson has already had a lengthy interview with the Dominions Secretary (Mr Amery), and other authorities. He strongly restated the position that he had already mentioned in Australia. It is understood that the exploration ship Discovery would be placed at. Australia’s disposal for any Antactic exploration Australia was prepared to undertake. Presumably, the British and Australian Governments would collaborate. The Discovery is adequately equipped and only needs a few additional scientific instruments, besides fuel and provisions. She could be largely staffed by Australian naval men and could carry a small aeroplane for surveying. Whether anything comes of the scheme now depends on the Australian Government. Undoubtedly, the chartering of the Discovery would cost about £lOO,OOO. and-the expedition, perhaps, would occupy two years, but undoubtedly it is felt that the Empire must not lose time in exploiting Antarctic interests.

Not only scientific development, but the advance of all phases of communications, means that, what a few years ago was only remotely possible, is now much more feasible. This has led several nations to look to the Antarctic, and there is no option for the Empire but to give the earliest attention to what, in many cases, are doubtfully defined areas. A striking example is the Bouvet Island controversy, which is apparently not yet ended.

Many areas like Bouvet Island were discovered, but. were, not occupied. Then they were marked on the map according to the nationality of the discoverer. Now, however, when these places are being visited with a view to exploitation. complications arise when the newcomers desire to plant their flag. An instance is the development, in the whaling industry which has been given much attention. The Norwegians are now able to carry out lengthy expeditions without landing. They have big ships so equipped that they can hoist the whales aboard and carry out the entire process of getting blubber,. whereas previously, it was essential to make a landing. 'l’he justification for whaling in certain areas, which may be within teiiitorial waters, now arises. Such possibilities, and the whole question of Antarctica, suggest that sooner or later an international conference may be necessary to deal with the problem. There is no likelihood that Sir George Wilkins will, in any way, be associated with the annexation aspect in Antarctica. He would be most valuable in connection with more clearly defining Australia’s areas, but it is understood that he desires to be concerned purely with the scientific and meteorological questions.