AMERICAN ITEMS.

Hokitika Guardian, 17 June 1921, Page 3

AMERICAN ITEMS.

CABLE NEWS.

AUSTRALIAN AND N.Z. CABLE ASSOCIATION. AMERICA’S DESIRE. (Received this day at 11.30 a.m.) NEW YORK, June 15. Secretary Hughes in a speech •at Brown University said it was undesirable that America's influence would ho frittered away by relating ourselves unnecessarily to political questions involving a rivalry of interests abroad with which we have no proper concern. It was equally true America cannot escape her relation to the world’s economic problems. America’s message of cordial friendship to all nations is, we have no doubt, a question which mutual goodwill and processes of reason cannot solve. We do not wish any exclusive advantages in possession which as a result of the war passed under now control. We simply ask we are not to be excluded from equal privilege.

AMERICA AND JAPAN. Received this day at, 11.25 a.m.) WASHINGTON, June 16

Direct negotiations have begun between United States and Japan, for a settlement of all unsettled questions between the two nations. There have been several frank conversations between the Slate Secretary (Mr Hughes) and Ambassador Shidohara. They hope to settle tho Yap difficulty without having recourse to the League of Nations. Discussions are proceeding on the basis of the internationalisation of cable privileges, which will satisfy' all the great powers. A complete stoppage of Jap coolie immigration is proposed, providing the property rights already acquired; are fully protected. Japanese promise to return Shantung, to be executed as soon as practicable, without reference to European tribunals. Initial steps have been taken for the withdrawal of troops, the forces to he evacuated when China provides guards. Japan will only retain such privileges as other countries enjoy.

CANADA’S PREMIER. ATTITUDE ON ANGLO-JAl’ ALLIANCE. (Received this day at 1.2.30 p.m.) OTTAWA, June 16. The following cable has been received from London—Premier Meighen of Canada will throw his whole weight against a renewal of the Anglo-Japanese Alliance, because no vital Empire interest is involved. He maintains the reasons wihe made the treaty necessary in 1911 have since disappeared. A renewal would be regarded as a challenge to United Slates and the fbrmatioit of a special alliance if antagonistic to the spirit of the tinTes, and the endeavours of the world foi disarmament and peace. Incidentally Air Meighen will urge the Imperial Conference to postpone the question of naval defence until next constitutional confefehco, or the international situation has cleared. Mr Meighen will argue that the best protection for Australia in showing the world that a good relationship and understandings exist between the Empire and United States. Should lie fail to have the Alliance re. nonneed Mr Meighen will ask for an insertion of a clause exempting Cahadn from its provisions until the Dominion Parliament acepts.