JAPAN AND THE LEAGUE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21421, 20 February 1933, Page 8

JAPAN AND THE LEAGUE

In spite of expectation in some quarters that Japan would not take the extreme step of withdrawing from the League, the Japanese Cabinet has decided to leave forthwith. This decision is based on the adverse report of the Committee of Nineteen, particularly with reference to the recognition of Manchukuo by Japan. It is expected that the League Assembly will adopt the report, which lays upon all member States an obligation not to accord recognition. The adoption of the report, therefore, throws upon Japan the onus of defiance of the committee's finding and recommendations. Probably this definite decision of the Japanese Cabinet has been made with an eye to its possible effect on Geneva, for the secession of one of the most powerful countries in the world and one with pivotal importance in the East —to say nothing of the weakening vacancy left amid the "permanent seats" of the League Council—would be a heavy blow to the League. Of course, any considerable moderation of the League's attitude to Japan to the extent of disavowal of the Lytton Jleport and the finding of the Committee of Nineteen, would react badly on the League's .prestige, and this cannot be overlooked by the Assembly. A grave risk is faced either way. But the Assembly may decide that the League's duty to the world in general and the Far East in particular demands less thought of its 'own prestige than of using what is left of its opportunity to prevent China and Japan from flying at each other's throats. Even with Japan out, it cannot wipe its hands of the trouble. No help in this dilemma is afforded by the provision for two years' notice before a member of the League can withdraw, nor from the somewhat academic stipulation that withdrawal cannot be effective unless all international obligations, and those under the Covenant, have been fulfilled. Japan's "forthwith" may be made good at once by stopping suddenly all co-operation. This week holds critical possibilities by reason of this Japanese decision.