AMERICAN PLAN

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20061, 6 October 1939, Page 7

AMERICAN PLAN

DOUBTS OF SHIPPERS BIG TASK FOR NAVY GERMAN SHIPPING COMPETITION IN TRADE (Elec. Tel. Copyright—-United Press Assn.) (Reccl Oct. G, 9 a.m.) NEW YORK, Oct. 5. The United States Secretary of State, Mr. Cordell Hull, explaining the meaning of the Pan-American safety zone plan, said that if the belligerents declined to refrain from hostilities in the safety zone, the 21 American republics would consult, but would retain individual freedom of action and decision. It is understood that the question of advising Russia of the Pan-Ameri-can decision to notify Britain, France and Germany of the safety belt in the western hemisphere was decided against because technically Russia is not at war, despite her invasion of Poland. An explanation as to why Poland is not being advised is not available, although several PanAmerican countries do not recognise the partition announced by Germany and Russia. Cristobal and canal zone steamship agents fear that the inter-American neutrality declaration may prove impracticable of operation. Neutral agents consider that the United States Navy would be unable to patrol 300 miles out to sea as well as defend its own coast-line. North American agents are of the opinion that German ships at present in South American ports would be able to continue inter-American trade, competing with United States companies who are taking over the business which the Nazis have lost.

Agents of British and French companies suggest that the safety zone would permit German raiders to reenter inter-American trade and clandestinely wage war against British and French shipping. They point out that they could not expect British and German warships within the safety zone to meet without engaging in hostilities.