American Reactions to Anzac Pact

Manawatu Times, Volume 69, Issue 57, 10 March 1944, Page 5

American Reactions to Anzac Pact

Received Thursday 10.50 p.m. WASHINGTON, March 8. Concerned over the future of United States military and commercial rights in the Pacific the House moved to-day towards the establishment of a committee to chart an American postwar programme in the Pacific area. One of the primary concerns will he the disposal of Pacific Island bases. The Associated Press said the move followed closely the recent Canberra Pact. Representative Starnes said the Australian-New Zealand Pact affected the United States’ legitimate postwar aims and aspirations, also its security and share in the air and sea trade routes in the Pacific area. Other congressmen expressed privately their belief that Australia and New Zealand may have adopted a coursa which raises the question of I the permanent disposal of the strategic bases now held by the enemy or just taken from him and other valuable territory. One congressman told the Associated Press that he will insist that the policy determined by this committee be carried out. ‘‘ I think every island in the Pacific where we spend money and lives conquering it from the JapwQM should be ours when the war is over. ’ The Associated Press says the Anzac Pact by contrast specifies that the use of islands in wartime does not in itself afford a basis for territorial claims or rights.