U.S. ATTITUDE TO SHIPPING BILLS

Northern Advocate, 26 October 1936, Page 5

U.S. ATTITUDE TO SHIPPING BILLS

[United Press Association. — By Electric (Received 10 a.m.)

WASHINGTON, October 24,

Officials commenting on the reports received by the State Departfhent on the New Zealapd and Australian Bills to restrict the transTasman shipping, said the United States would have no grounds for action until the legislation was passed. The situation is ' being watched closely, and the .hope has been informally expressed that no action will be necessary here. Citing -similar restrictions between the United, States and Hawaii, one official said the Bills apparently would grant only discretionary powers, and were not for mandatory application.

Thorough. Study First.

No official report had been received as to whether Australia and New Zealand expected to exercise these powers. If they were exercised a thorough study would be made of the question in Washington before deciding whether there were grounds for diplomatic protests or retaliation, Australia at present was out of favour with the . State Department, because of her new tariffs discriminating against American trade. In consequence, the lower rates established in the reciprocal trade agreements between the United States and other countries have not been extended to her. The Maritime Commission considers that it has not been informed of the shipping Bills. Expected For Two Years.

The city , editor of “The Times,” accbrding to a London message, says he Considers the New Zealand Government’s Protection of Shipping Bill no less welcome because it has been expected for more than two years, since the joint declaration by Australia and New Zealand in September, 1934.

However, the proposed reservation of trans-Tasman trade, though important to such vessels as the Awatea, only bears upon one aspect of the problem.