FRIENDS ALWAYS.

Manawatu Times, Volume XLVII, Issue 2777, 19 October 1923, Page 5

FRIENDS ALWAYS.

JAPAN STANDS FOR PEACE.

STRATEGIC VALUE OF SINGAPORE BASE. WHY A WHITE AUSTRALIA? [By Electric Cable—Copyright] [Aust. and N.Z. Cable Association.] (Received Thursday, 7 p.m.) TOKIO, Oct. I*. On being interviewed, Baron Ijuln, Foreign Minister, in referring t'o the Singapore base, said the. Washington agreement furnished no grounds for protest against Britain's proposal. Britain naturally was anxious to adopt certain measures to protect her Dominions. She had many important interests, and Singapore was one of the most valuable strategic situat.ons. Though the Anglo-Japanese alliance was no longer operating, the best possible understanding existed between Britain, and Japan. The Washington Conference and Pacific pact should guarantee a long peace in the Pacific. Britain, America, and Japan were specially interested in the Pacific. He hoped all would follow the spirit of the Washington Conference, in which case no difficulties were likely to arise. Japan was most anxious to see that' the spirit should continue for ever. Peace was very necessary to all countries. Regarding China, Japan's policy was an open door, with equal opportunities to all. There was no fear of any serious quarrel between America and Japan on this or any other question. Japan desired to be a friendly neighbour with China, commercially and industrially. So far as the White Australia policy was concerned, Japan was desirous that Australia should give her more libvral treatment. Thero had been mudh misunderstanding by Australians, but Japan was very anxious to bo good friends always. That was the best policy for all countries bordering on the Pacific, ________