PLAIN ISSUES

Timaru Herald, Volume CLVIII, Issue 23260, 23 July 1945, Page 5

PLAIN ISSUES

Capitulation Or Destruction Broadcast To Japan By Telegraph—N.Z. Press Assn.—Copyright (6.30 p.m.) WASHINC-TON. July 21. Broadcasting as the official spokesman of the United States Government directly addressing the .Japanese leaders, Captain E. C. Zacharias, of the United States Navy, who speaks Japanese, said: “You face two alternatives, the virtual destruction of Japan followed by a dictated peace, or unconditional surrender with it- attendant benefits as laid down by the Atlantic Charter. The latter alone, which is a humanitarian gesture of great constructive value, can bring peace and prosperity. “Surrender is a time-honoured I formula. Japanese armies have suri rendered before. If Japan surrenders without delay, it is assumable j that the United States will enforce I the formula and ensure peace, but if I you delay we will hold you responsible ! for the criminal prolongation of a ; lost* war. “There are still some influential | persons in the United States who ueuld not like to see the destruction of Japan, but cur patience is rapidly running cut. Are Japan’s leaders so shortsighted that they cannot see the I possible complications they may face I if they fail to act promptly?” — i