BRITAIN AND JAPAN.

Wanganui Herald, Volume LIII, Issue 16037, 30 January 1920, Page 3

BRITAIN AND JAPAN.

RENEWAL OP ALLIANCE DISCUSSED.

Australian and N.Z. Cable Association

TOKIO, January 26.

The Anglo-Japanese Alliance expires ill July, 1921, and its renewal is being discussed. A close understanding with. Japan remains an important consideration in British policy, but amendment of the Treaty is expected in view of the changed balance of the world and the existence of the League of Nations. Renewal is likely to be until the League is further advanced. The Japanese arc displaying lively in bo rest in the renewal. The Government organ, Jiji, declares that although Russia has collapsed, renewal of the Treaty is necessary owing to possible German designs in the Far East, but the paper thinks it is not possible for the Treaty to remain the same offensive and defensive alliance owing to the League of Nations convention.

M. Kato, interviewed,, said he was most anxious that the alliance should continue in some form or other.

Baron Shibusawa is similarly anxious for a renewal in such form as is compatible with the League of Nations. Count Okinna said that as Russia might easily recover power, prolongation of the alliance was unquestionably in the Japanese interest.