U.S.A. AID TO BRITAIN

Greymouth Evening Star, 12 September 1945, Page 5

U.S.A. AID TO BRITAIN

REPUBLICANS’ OBJECTIONS (Recd. 1 p.m.) WASHINGTON, Sept. 11. “The American people have been asked to finance ’the socialisation of [he United Kingdom through forcible acquisition of business and industry,” said Mr. Knutson, senior Republican member of the Ways and Means Committee, addressing the House of Representatives. “Just what kind of saps do they think we are. It is inconceivable that Mr. Truman and Congress will permit billions to be taken from the American Treasury and given to foreign countries to be used for the expropriation of privately-owned and operated property, especially in view of the depleted condition of our own Treasury. We should tell the Government of the United Kingdom that if they wish forcibly io take over all major private activity they must themselves finance it, or look to Moscow for such financing. It is doubtful if the American people will continue to buy Government bonds the proceeds of which will be used to promote a programme of Governmental banditry, for that is precisely what it amounts to.” Other Republicans supported Mr. Knutson. Mr. Curtis told the House that the British Government was merely seeking funds from America with which to buy the Bank of England, mines and railways. Why should the American taxpayer be required to make I good the promises of a foreign political party? Mr. Landis said the Administration was proposing UNRRA programme to replace lend-lease. It was time to halt these hand-outs to foreign countries. Only surplus foodstocks should be given to starving nations.