Japan Raises Cry of Encirclement

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 49, 26 February 1941, Page 7

Japan Raises Cry of Encirclement

U.S. BASE IN GUAM TOXIO, Feb. 24. Vice-Admiral Toyada told a committee of the House of Representatives to-day that the United States appropriation for the construction of a base at Guam Island, in the Western Pacific, represented American military preparation to encircle Japan. However “The Japanese Navy is not gravely menaced—it has already decided on the proper counter-measures.” The Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs. Mr. Ohashi, responding to questions at the afternoon session of the Deficit and Bonds Committee of the House of Representatives, said: “There is no reason why Britain and the United States should object to Japan’s mediation in the dispute between Indo-China and Thailand or the trade negotiations between Japan and the Netherlands East Indies, and, In this respect, the Japanese Government will closely watch British and America* moves.” Though it is authoritatively stated tn Saigon, Indo-China, that the armistice with Thailand will be extended until March 7, Japanese sources report intensive French preparations against the possibility that the current armistice, which expires on Tuesdav j Will not be renewed.