NAVAL HITCH

Southland Times, Issue 21361, 6 April 1931, Page 7

NAVAL HITCH

FRANCE AND ITALY

DIFFICULTY IN DRAFTING AGREEMENT REPLACEMENT PROBLEM. (United Press Assn.—By Telegraph—Copyright.) (Rec. 5.5 p.m.) London, April 4 The drafting of the Franco-Italian naval treaty is proving more difficult than was anticipated. Members of the committee have returned to their respective countries to consult their governments. According to the British United Press correspondent in Paris, the French viewpoint is that while the agreement governs the number of replacement units to be commissioned before 193 G, it does not govern the amount of tonnage which can be constructed. Therefore vessels in excess of those allotted could be built provided they are not utilized at present. A message from Rome states that Italy insists on the observance of the spirit as well as the letter of the agreement, but does not hold the opinion shared elsewhere regarding the possibility of a breakdown of the negotiations. It is understood that the French claim that new ships begun after 1934 and not completed by 1936 are excluded from the treaty. They claim therefore that they are entitled to build 66,000 tons in 1934, 1935 and 1936, but completed after 1936, to replace obsolete vessels. This is stated to represent a voluntary sacrifice of half the tonnage France feels she needs for replacement. JAPANESE NAVY NEW 10,000-TDN CRUISER. (Rec. 12.45 a.m.) Tokio, April 5. The aircraft carrier Ryujo, of 7600 tons, was launched at Yokohama on Thursday and the 10,000-ton cruiser Chokai at Nagasaki to-day. Prince Fushini represented the Emperor at both functions which were attended by enormous crowds. Eight destroyers, three cruisers and a minelayer have been removed from the active list.