PACIFIC AIR ROUTES.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LV, Issue 257, 27 September 1935, Page 2

PACIFIC AIR ROUTES.

THE AMERICAN SERVICE. NO IMMEDIATE ACTION. WELLINGTON, Sept. 27. It can now be said definitely that there is little likelihood of immediate action in connection with the negotiations which Pan-American Airways are conducting with the New Zealand Government concerning the proposed trans-Pacific air service. Members of the Cabinet yesterday were not prepared to discuss the matter in detail or to amplify the statement that the British Government i.s taking an active interest in proceedings. However, there appears to be unanimity in the view that the proposed service would be of material advantage to the Dominion, but against that is the opinion that wider issues are involved than appear on the surface and that negotiations in certain directions are essential. It is said that questions regarding competition between British and American shipping in the Pacific do not enter into any possible negotiations, regarding the air service proposals. For one tiling it is not expected that an air service across the Pacific would affect to any great extent passenger traffic on ocean liners. It would cater almost exclusively for a class of passenger to whom time is all important. The extent of the British Government’s interest in the proposals cannot be ascertained, but it is gathered that the Dominion authorities will have the final word. The fact that under the proposals an American air service would serve Empire territory does not create a precedent. Pan-American Airway already operates .services to the British West Indies, off the eastern coast of America. These islands are Crown colonies, and as such come under the direct control of Great Britain.