A JAPANESE STATEMENT.

Hokitika Guardian, 8 April 1924, Page 3

A JAPANESE STATEMENT.

LONDON, April 7

‘‘We are glad the British fSbvcrnluent decided not to create a great naval base at Singapore, declared Baron M'atsui (Japanese Foreign .Minister) in an interview with a correspondent at Tokyo. “T know of course such a base was not designed out ol hostility to us but as we are not a potential enemy of Britain and there is no other eastern naval power. The construction of a Singapore base would be heedless and cause among some of us a .feeling of regret and disappointment.” Matsui emphasised the fact that Japan had a high regard for its treaty, and other associations-, with Britain and pointed out there was no issue on which, the nations disagreed, and so far no serious issue was likely to arise. It was incorrect to suppose that Japan was constructing auxiliary ships on a scale that would create a rivalry with other powers. Me are more than content with the naval agreement, and we intend to adhere to the spirit as well as the letter of that Treaty. I hope ft will he repeatedly renewed and continue indefinitely, and form a bond of understanding among the naval powers insuring peace upon the sens. Japan desires peace not on- • ly sentimental, but based upon our requirements and our best interests. Our foreign trade is vital to us and we do not desire to impair or endanger it. On the contrary one of our most important necessities is the assurance of the permancy of our overseas commerce, and ‘ts constant development.’’