LEGATION PLAN

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23339, 6 May 1939, Page 13

LEGATION PLAN

AUSTRALIAN MINISTER POST IN WASHINGTON AMERICANS WELCOME STEP IMPENDING APPOINTMENT By Telegraph—Press Association —Copyright (Received May 5, 5.5 p.m.) "WASHINGTON, May 4 Diplomatic and American official circles show a unanimous approval of the impending appointment of an Australian Minister to Washington. There is a variety of reasons why Americans welcome the step.

Australia, mindful of her prestige, cannot longer ignore the fact that other Dominion legations have seniority. Furthermore, the growth of commercial relationships between Australia and America, and the growth from them of other relationships, requires a legation. Finally, "in the troubled days to come for Britain and her Dominions, her Ambassador, flanked by Ministers from Australia, Canada, South Africa and other Empire countries, should be able to appear at the State Department and speak together on important issues. This is impossible so long as Australia has only a counsellor." It is felt that Canberra will probably select for the post an important public figure, as more complimentary to America, particularly in view of the small number of so-called "foreign service career men" from whom the Government can choose. It is felt hero that the appointment will probably not be mado until September, at the earliest, and possibly not until the end of the year.

The Australian Prime Minister, Mr. Menzies, said on April 27 that the Federal Government would establish Australian delegations in Washington and Tokio with as little delay as possible. The decision to establish legations in the United States and Japan ■was made by the Lyons Ministry fhortly before the death of Mr. Lyons. The plan has been adopted now by the new Ministry.

Mr. Menaies said that, while he hoped that steps would be completed for the opening of both legations before the end of this year, progress would be determined by the preliminary discussions. For the move to be successful, it would have to be reciprocal.

So far, Mr. Menzies added, the personnel for the new posts had not been considered. It would bo taken for granted, however, that persons of great experience and prestige in Australia and with a wide knowledge of Australian * political and economic affairs would be chosen.

While Australia . will accept the role of a principal in diplomatic relations with 'the United States and Japan, she will not depart from the traditional policy of close co-operation with Britain. .