FROM SINGAPORE TO N.Z.

Northern Advocate, 8 February 1936, Page 5

FROM SINGAPORE TO N.Z.

BRITISH AIR MAIL PLAN

RUMOUR

(Received 1.30 p.m.) LONDON, February 7.

While a hopeful compromise from Canberra would render the Empire air mail scheme workable approximately on the original lines, it is understood the British Government is prepared to go to great lengths,to implement the proposals, even if the British share of expenditure rises. Authorities are speaking freely of the possibility of Britain running an independent service to New Zealand from Singapore through Australia, in order to maintain a flat rate of IJd, while Australians would perhaps be paying 1/6 to Britain, which, it is pointed out, the British Post-master-General is entitled to do. This would produce economic absurdities, and, therefore, the suggestion may be regarded as illustrative of the effects of the Australian decision, rather than the practical position. The Australian Associated Press understands that Sir James Parr cabled Mr M. J. Savage details of his interview with Viscount Swinton, Air Minister. who is reported to be concerned at the isolation of New Zealand from the scheme by the Australian attitude. The Minister also pointed out that the scheme would not deprive Australia of an important share of the control of the Sydney-Singapore link.