EXCEPTION TAKEN

Hokitika Guardian, 21 October 1933, Page 5

EXCEPTION TAKEN

TT.S. NAVY LEAGUE

RECENT REFERENCE BY SIMON

(United Press Association— Electric

Telegi aph—Copyright,.)

"WASHINGTON, October 20. „ Tlle Nav - v Dengue of the United States have published a sensational open letter to the Navy League.of the British Empire, taking exception to Sir . Simon, the British Foreign Minister's recent references to American plans to build ten thousand ton cruisers. The American League’s letter says: “We are being forced, reluctantly to the conclusion .that . your statesmen continue to say that- war between us is unthinkable, they, apparently, keep in mind always, such a contingency; and that, in the event of our en- | gngement in any war in which' Britain shall remain neutral, Britain is indifferent to the outcome. This conclusion is likewise strengthened by the British attack beng made on the mail subventions that are granted to our merchant fleet.”

The American Navy League concludes: “We are hopeful that candour, on both sides will servie to reconcile our views.”

The American Navy League, in its ■ letter, told the British Navy League that the continued antagonism by Britain to the naval building policy of the United States would block the “absolutely essential” co-operation between the two 'nations. The letter is signed by Mr N. M. Hubbard, jnr., the President of the U.S.A. Navy League. It is to be delivered formally on Friday in LoneVn The League has no .official connection with the Government here.