President Seeks Repeal Of Two Sections Of Act

Northern Advocate, 8 October 1941, Page 5

President Seeks Repeal Of Two Sections Of Act

(Rec. 3 p.m.) WASHINGTON, Oct. 7. Alter a long meeting the conference convened by President Roosevelt to consider revision of the Neutrality Act adjourned until tomorrow, with the understanding that a definite programme would then be approved. President Roosevelt indicated that he desired the repeal of two sections cf the Act. which forbid the arming of merchantmen and prevent passage into belligerent zones. Panama’s prohibition against the arming of merchantmen has increased the need for rapid revision of the Act.

Practically Unanimous The conference developed considerable differences of opinion as to procedure, but was virtually unanimous that both steps should be taken. Senator Barkley expressed confidence that agreement would be reached tomorrow. A message from the Associated Press correspondent states that survivors of the tanker I. C. White said the ship was torpedoed at night in the south Atlantic by an unidentified submarine which shelled the ship while sinking. Willkie Impatient The Republican leader (Mr. Wendell Willkie), is advocating the repeal of the Neutrality Act at once. He criticises the Administration’s “futile’’ policy of following public opinion in stead of leading it. The “New York Sun's’’ Washington correspondent says the administration leaders are convinced that both the Senate and the House of Representatives are stronger in their support of Mr. Roosevelt’s foreign policy than at any previous time. This is due principally to a marked change in public opinion and a growing sentiment against the isolation policy. "We will tell the President of the United States that if it is necessary he must take some drastic action to protect the freedom of the seas and democracy. We will stand by him to the bitter end.” Labour United This statement by the president (Mr. William Green) at the convention of the American Federation of Labour at Seattle was greeted with roars of cheers from 3500 delegates. Mr. Green added “There is nc Left or Right wing in the American Federation of Labour. It is a united body. We talk as one, act as one and fight as one. There are no isolationists in the American Federation of Labour.” The Panama correspondent of the Associated Press says he is informed that the Government of Panama has decided to cancel the registration of all foreign owned ships if they are armed by the owners.