AMERICAN NEUTRALITY

Greymouth Evening Star, 10 February 1938, Page 7

AMERICAN NEUTRALITY

BRITISH ALLIANCE DENIED MR. HULL’S STATEMENT [by CABLE—PRESS ASSN. —-COPYRIGHT.] WASHINGTON, February 9. Mr. Cordell Hull, Secretary of State, sent a letter to the .Senate in answer to Senator E. C. Johnson (Colorado), stating that no alliance, agreement or understanding exists, or is contemplated, with Great Britain. 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. Senator Johnson submitted a resolution in the Senate on Tuesday, asking Mr. Hull to reveal whether the. United States contemplated any foreign alliances or understandings. PRESS COMMENTS. (Received February 10, 11.25 a.m.) NEW YORK, February 9. The “New York Sun,’’ in a leader, says: Mr. 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 the 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. The United States’ acceptance of Australia’s invitation to send a naval squadron to the celebrations gave an opportunity for surprising tales to gain circulation. When, soon after this, it was announced that a squadron would be present for 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 at the Capitol, they were recognised as appropriate pegs on which to hang questions. These questions at present are answered, and the answers are what sensible Americans confidently expected. The “New York Times” continues a series of leaders on parallel lines, stating: It is unnecessary and unwarranted to look for an ulterior motive in the consultations with Britain regarding the Orient. The two nations have similar interests to face, with common risks and dangers, and 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, to 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 a consultation between Britain and America, not only regarding the Far East, but other troubled areas, whenever a threat to peace arises, or a treaty 'which both have signed is thrown aside. This is not because a deep plot is being hatched, but it is because the two great democracies have a common interest in an orderly and stable world.

BRITISH SUPPORT. (Recd. February 10, 1 p.m.) LONDOI«1| February 9Professor Gilbert Murray, addressing the 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 it may take in respect to Japan, facing any risk.”

FRENCH ARMAMENTS

LONDON, February 9

The “Daily Telegraph’s” Paris correspondent says: The Chambers Army, Navy and Air Committees, at a secret session, unpreced'ently heard M. Daladier speak on the armament position, as Co-ordination Minister. He declared that France was lagging a year -behind Italy and Germany m war material and aeroplanes, which was unalterable until the 40-hour week was further relaxed. M. Bertrand intimated that the Government was building two additional 35,000-ton warships. Unless building was speeded up the Italian fleet would be superior to the French fleet, by 1942.