THE DEBT TO CHINA

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25963, 2 October 1945, Page 9

THE DEBT TO CHINA

Sir, —There are many. questions of supreme national and international importance that demand enlightened and serious consideration by New Zealand, Australia, and other countries now that tlie stupendous and terrible world war II to preserve freedom of the human spirit and the benefits of democratic ways of life and free, liberal institutions, has ended. In that connection there is a question which cannot be ignored without grave troubles developing later. I refer to the question as to what modifications or alterations (if any) should be made in the restrictive penalising conditions to enable approved Chinese entrants to being admitted to New Zealand, Australia, and other countries similarly situated. The arguments for and against are worthy of careful and rational examination. A consideration which comes to the front when the questions at issue are discussed is what would have been the magnitude of the d&nger and probable consequences, to New Zealand and Australia had the forces of China not fought gallantly against those of Japan? Immeasurable benefits were derived from the marvellous heroic defensive struggle by, and the nobility of sacrifice on the part of, the Chinese in their battle of civilisation against savagery. By her fortitude, her sacrifices, and her triumph over inexpressible sufferings, China has placed the world under a debt which it can never repay. Writing on this subject a cultured contributor to a British review said: "In the bloom of the dark valley through which mankind has marched, the spirit of China shone out like a great beacon and uplifted our hearts. Now the battle of freedom has been won, we must all pledge ourselves to build with China a new world which will be a decent and fit inheritance for us to hand on to our children.” In America tlie quota for admission of Chinese entrants has been increased. It is to the everlasting credit of China that its spirit was not destroyed in a time of trial and nerves, and that while fighting the Japanese, she, despite the ravages of cruel barbarians, extended the educational opportunities open to young and old, and expanded the scope of social services.—l am, etc., Humanist.