Envoys To America

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIX, Issue 21957, 8 May 1941, Page 4

Envoys To America

THE decision of the Government to send the Rt. Hon. J. G. Coates and the Hon. F. Langstone on a mission to the United States is an important step towards the establishment of permanent trade and diplomatic relations with the Government and people of America. Mr Langstone’s special task is to promote trade negotiations. The reason for this move is clear. Through no fault of the Government’s the Dominion is faced with the exacting problem of finding an alternative market for primary products. The British Government is willing to take what this country can supply, but the hazards of war have affected the, capacity of Britain to import from New Zealand. For some time yet "the shipping position must remain serious and it is prudent policy for the Government to attempt the creation of a demand for New Zealand produce in the United States market.

Mr Coates, as a member of the War Cabinet, is going to America with the object of obtaining munition supplies. Although excellent pioneering work is being done in the home manufacture of munitions there must be certain essentials which can be produced in greater bulk abroad. Normally such supplies could be obtained from Great Britain, but the demand upon British industry for the supply of munitions to the various theatres of war is great, and in any case the shipping position again has to be considered. The United States would be a perfect alternative source of supply and Mr Coates will be able to present the Dominion’s case effectively.

As Mr Langstone will also make preliminary arrangements for the establishment of a New Zealand legation in Washington it would seem that the Government has not yet selected its Minister to the United States. This is an appointment which should be made with the least possible delay. The closer United States attachment to the Allied cause becomes the more necessary it is for the Dominion to enter into complete diplomatic relations with the American Government.