IF WAR COMEB-WHAT?

Waikato Times, Volume 114, Issue 19051, 15 September 1933, Page 7

IF WAR COMEB-WHAT?

PROBABILITIES DISCUSSED A NOTE OF PESSIMISM. THE POSITION IN THE PACIFIC. United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright. (Received Sept. 15, 12.5 a.m.) TORONTO, Sept. 14. A discussion on the probabilities of another great war took place at the British Commonwealth Relations’ Conference to-day, on the general topic ■as to what, would happen to the British Commonwealth in the event of a -breakdown or failure of the League of Nations and the present international co-operative system of maintaining peace. Some members doubted whether the Commonwealth could continue to exist, others were convinced it could exist by making itself strong and defending Its resources. One of the most pessimistic speakers at the meeting, which was 'held In camera, contended that the world was not showing a t.endenoy to divide up its naval spheres. Australia and New Zealand were clearly outside the British naval sphere, and In the event of war could not receive adequate protection unless European conditions were so peaceful that the entire Navy could be released for service In the Paolflo. This possibility, however, was unlikely as Japan, for instance, would have better sense than to launch a conflict In the Pacific unless there was enough trouble In Europe to keep a good part of the Navy busy there. One Canadian delegate asserted it was clearly in the interests of the Empire to make a success of the League and the co-operative method of settling international disputes.

Another Canadian, asserted that Canada secured more benefit from the Navy than many other nations, and •should pay a special premium for its support.