AMERICAN SHIPPING

Otago Daily Times, Issue 20964, 1 March 1930, Page 13

AMERICAN SHIPPING

A GREAT FORWARD POLICY. GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE. - - HEAVY MAIL SUBSIDIES. (United Press Association.) (By Electric Telegraph—Copyright.) LONDON, February 27. While the live Powers are attempting to reduce their navies, one of them—namely, the United States—A frankly determined to build a great merchant marine. This development is regarded here with much interest quite apart from shipping circles. Indeed, it is regarded as a move of considerable international importance, so much so that the various dominions are receiving political intelligence on the subject. Mr Hoover shortly after assuming office intimated that the United States desired a merchant fleet second to none. That country is now vigorously pursuing a forward policy, and is at present concentrating on the Atlantic, but there is every indication of its turning to the Pacific with increased activity. It is of special interest to Australia and New Zealand. It is suggested that the United States interests px-opose to build new ships for the Australian-Amcrican trade superior to anything at present engaged in it. This would necessitate building by the existing linos if they are to compete satisfactorily but British interests are faced with difficulties in view of the serious depression, when there is already a glut of shipping, and new building is uneconomical. On the contrary, the United States Government is assisting the American interests on a big scale with heavy mail subsidies.