SINGAPORE BASE.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 13 December 1924, Page 7

SINGAPORE BASE.

JAPANESE OPPOSITION. VIE AYS OF THE PRESS. 3Y CABLE—-PRESS ASSOCIATION—COPYRIGHT. Received Dec. 13, 9.4-5 a.m TOKIO, Dec. 12. The announcement of the decision to proceed with the Singapore base, has again intensified press comments against the scheme, which, with the American naval manoeuyres in 1925, has been the constant topic of discussion for several weeks past. The view is practically unanimous that the construction of the base will be productive of more harm than good, because it is contrary to the spirit and letter of the Washington agreements, and is likely to create misunderstanding and again promote the armaments race.

The newspaper Jiii, while recognising that Singapore is purely a British domestic concern, draws attention to the possibility of misunderstanding on the part of the Japanese, who despite the absence of an alliance always regard Britain with respect and friendship. The paper quotes Lord Grey’s earlier indictment of the scheme, which it declares represents the views Pif Ja'pan in this regard. The Chugai expresses the opinion that the alleged reason for the base — namely, for the defence of Australia — is unjustifiable in view of the Washington quadruple agreement, which renders Australia- immune from attack. The Kokumin declares that Japan will have to modify her defence policy, while the Yamato- asserts that the base nullifies the naval ratio agreed on at Washington to ensure the safety of J apau.—Reuter.