Approval For Dropping* Of Word “British” In Commonwealth

Wanganui Chronicle, 2 November 1948, Page 5

Approval For Dropping* Of Word “British” In Commonwealth

(N.Z.P.A.—Special—Copyright.)

LONDON, Nov. 1 (Rec. 7.20 p.m.)— Support for the dropping of the word “British” from the title of “British Commonwealth” is given by “The Economist.”

“It is right.” it says, "tliat it should be dropped, for the Commonwealth no longer contains more than onesixth British stock, whatever may be its historical origin. Equally the word ‘Dominion’ has disappeared from official statements, although its going leaves a void in the vocabulary which is but clumsily filled by the word ‘Commonwealth Country.’ ”

“The Economist” remarks that the final communique of the Commonwealth Prime Ministers' Conference was more than a statement of "highest common platitude,” and adds: “It endorses the British Government’s policy in regard to both the Brussels Treaty and the forecast of its commitments to O.E.E.C. It also establishes the positive aspect of resistance to Communism and it is the first Commonwealth document ever to set its ideals so high. Regarding co-operation and consultation, “The Economist” notes that the only country which seemed unwilling to subscribe to the general principle was South Africa. Its commitment, says "The Economist.” extends to the fight but beyond that its delegate has described his brief as being “conditioned by South Africa’s interests and by strict observance of the principle of ‘South Africa First.’ ” The journal adds that the most significant event of the conference was the willingness of Mr. Nehru to take a full and constructive part in it. It was not known before hand how far he was prepared to enter frank discussions with the other Prime Minis-. ters, but it turned out that he was prepared not only to participate wholeheartedly in- the plenary sessions but to take a lead in private discussions in the future of India's relationship with the Commonwealth. It would be idle, says “The Economist,” to pretend that India's future relationship witli the Commonwealth can be settled by personal cordiality. A formula Kist be found which will satisfy Britain and the countries of the original Commonwealth—one which does not disturb the position of the Crown as the connecting link. But given the present cordiality of relations between India and the Commixwealth, it thinks a compromise can probably be found and upheld.