AMERICAN ITEMS.

Hokitika Guardian, 26 February 1925, Page 2

AMERICAN ITEMS.

[Reuters Telegrams.] C.S.A. FLEET’S AUSTRALASIAN TOUR. WASHINGTON, February ”3. Only a tentative itinerary has bun worked out by the Naval Department for the Australian cruise. The battle ships are expected to begin on July 1, when the Hawiian manoeuvres arc concluded. Plans are being ;cnt to Admiral Coontz for approval. Some of the bigger battleships will .eqtiirc deeper water than the channels ot some of the Australian harbours provide, hut the most powerful and modern lighting craft will be selected tor the Australian visit.

V POSSIBLE CONFLICT. WASHINGTON, Feb. 25

A pjossible conflict with Britain over her shipping trade policies are reasons for having a strong l nitod States Navy. This was u Hat Rear-Admiral Pluips told the Women’s,Defeme Council. which has pledged its efforts to maintain peace. Admiral Phelps said that the bulk of tiie world’s oil supplies are under British control. He continued: “And within another generation. when our own oil pools aie drained, not only by us, hut by England and Japan to conserve their own oil reserves .your navy and marine will he at Britain’s mercy for fuel!” The determination of the United States to build up. an adequate merchant marine. Admiral Phelps added, had aroused the hitter animosity of the British shipinterests.