Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 1939. EYES ON PACIFIC.

Greymouth Evening Star, 18 April 1939, Page 6

Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 1939. EYES ON PACIFIC.

W HTT JE various interpretations have been placed by American commentators upon the sudden transfer of United States naval forces from the Atlantic to the Pacific, in the absence of an official explanation, the fact that the move lias been made carries its own significance. If the occasion were merely of a routine character. the cancellation of leave, and the “rush” orders from Washington. would appear to be unnecessary. In the circumstances, some credence will be given to the reports that, if further developments occur in Europe, they may be accompanied by action on the part of Japan, in the Pacific. On the other hand, it may be that the removal of the fleet from the Atlantic indicates a desire to bring about a decrease in European tension. In anv case, the evidence

that the United. States naval forces are on a war footing may carry a not inconsiderable weight, in the councils of other nations. There is little room remaining for doubt that, in the event of further aggressive moves on the part of Germany or Italy, the United States would be actively aligned with llio democracies. The speeches of Mr. Roosevelt, carry a plain warning, and show that, while willing to do everything possible for the cause of peace, the presence of “other methods” cannot be ignored. So far as Mr. Roosevelt’s direct appeal to Herr Hitler and Signor Mussolini is concerned, it would savour as something of the miraculous if the Dictators voluntarily agreed to pledge themselves not to use their armed forces to attack independent States. Mr. Roosevelt, perhaps, would receive the greatest surprise if his anneal

succeeded. There have already been ample opportunities for Herr Hitler and his axis partner to display any tendency they possessed towards ensuring peace. The speeches of British statesmen have provided ample pegs upon which to hang friendly negotiations, but the response has been nil. It seems to be a vain hope that the President’s appeal can bring about a change of policy, at this late hour. The tone of German comments, some of them of a semi-official nature, is anything but hopeful. It is probable that the previous actions of the United States, as, for instance, the barter plan proposed by Senator Byrnes, and approved by the Administration, are adding fuel to the flame of resentment in Germany. Under this plan, it is obvious that the Dictators would be placed at a serious disadvantage, in war-time. Hopes are not seriously '■ entertained, therefore, that, to use an Americanism, the latest move on the part of Mr. Roosevelt will “cut much ice.”

Recently, the occupation by Japan of the strategically-placed Spratley Island, near the coast of North Borneo, gave impetus to the concern which has for some time been felt in the United States. It is believed that, if events come to a head in Europe, Japan will seize the opportunity to undertake naval operations in the Dutch East Indies. With the Japanese navy in control of this area of the Western Pacific, the United States would be directly affected, in view of the fact that she is dependent upon the rubber, tin, and other essential commodities produced there. The focussing of attention upon the Pacific lends additional importance to the conference being held in New Zealand, to consider defence questions. There is increasing need for cooperation with the Commonwealth and with the Homeland, to ensure that the Dominion will be able to do her part in defending herself in case of need. Apathy on the part of the public is still great, despite warnings from many quarters that New Zealand is, as Mr. Semple has expressed it, “not in the safety zone.” Meanwhile, it is not too much to say that Herr Hitler holds in his hands the peace of the world. He could make his birthday memorable, this week, by giving the guarantee -invited by Mr. Roosevelt.