PACIFIC PROBLEM

Dominion, Volume 15, Issue 15, 12 October 1921, Page 5

PACIFIC PROBLEM

PROTECTION OF AUSTRALIA BRITAIN’S DECISIVE INFLUENCE The “Daily Express” says that the best naval opinion considers that Australia’s nervousness regarding her unprotected shores is unwarranted, and that the British Empire and the American Republic can give her a guarantee against invasion. By Telegraph—Brass Association—Copyright (Rec. October 11, 5.5 p.m.) London, October 10. The "Daily Express,’’ continuing the discussion on the Pacific problem, points out: “If there is any question of not paying tho United States tho money wo owe,. Britain will bo accused of using American money to build battleships against the < iuii.il States. Another difficulty the British Empire lias to face is tho possibility of a divergence of opinion between Canada and Australia. Canada’s sympathies aro with the Power which also objects to Oriental immigration, but Australia is far away and fears that if war is not averted the first shock will fall on her unprotected shores. The b<st naval opinion, however, considers this natural nervousness unwarranted. Japan would bo operating far from her bases, with tho American fleet on her flanks. Such a move on Japan’s part would 100 courting a naval Moscow. It should therefore be easy for Britain to satisfy Australia thjit she is not in real danger, and that the British Empire and tho American Republic can give her a guarantee against invasion. Tho poeiis that America will he satisfied that her debt will be paid. Australia will be convinced that she is protected and Japan will believe Britain s ancient sympathy will not be wanting to enable her to effect a reasonable settlement. Britain should tlurefore bo able to exercise a decisive influence." —Aus.N.Z. Cable Assn.