America.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 285, 30 November 1914, Page 5

America.

THE POSITION OF CANADA.

MR TAFT’S VIEWS.

United Press Association. New York, November 28

Mr Taft, speaking at Mont Clair, New Jersey, endorsed the Monroe doctrine. He declared that the interference of the United States in Mexican and South American affairs was entirely outside the doctrine. The landing of troops in Canada by an enemy would not constitute a breach of the doctrine, but any attempt to establish a new system of Government would bo resisted if Canada were conquered. The Argentina, Chili, and Brazil were able to protect themselves, therefore there was little likelihood of the doctrine being pressed there. Neither was it required that the United States should establish peace in Mexico. He criticised the occupation of Vera Cruz. It had accomplished nothing. Instead, the present anarchy was charged as being due to the United States entirely. Monroeism had made for peace for ninety years. Why not make peace for a hundred years to come? Generally, the United States would not interfere so long as one country did not seek to inflict Government upon the conquered people of annexed territory, or resorted to unjustly oppressive measures. Canada was already furnishing military aid to Britain On what theory could the United States object to Germany taking counter measures, and exacting an indemnity if desirable? The United States would not allow the annexation of Canada. Monroeism prevented wars. If the United States abandoned it, the European Powers would sooner or later engage in controversies with the smaller American people, and as a result the United States would be forced to enter into them. Argentina, Brazil and Chili fully understood that the United States was not exercising authority over them, and it was undesirable to ask them to assist in the maintenance of the doctrine as likely to cause jealousy among the smaller Powers. The work of the United States with Hayti and San Domingo was merely that of friendly neighbours, trying to keep the peace of the community. THE MINOR REPUBLICS. Washington, November 28. The Peruvian Minister laid a scheme before Mr Bryan, Secretary of the State Department, in reference to the South American waters of both oceans, and establishing neutral zones wherein merchantmen of all nationalities will 1)0 free from molestation. The proposal briefly comprised the extension of territorial waters seaward for a distance to be later determined. The Brazilian Minister has asked the United States’ co-operation with the object of restoring Brazil’s crippled trade. Mr Bryan refused any decision until the President had consulted Cabinet. A PEACE CENTENARY. (Received 9 a.m.) London, November 29. The New York American says that the Canadian-British peace centenary celebrations are postponed until the end of the war, but the plans will proceed in respect of church celebrations, including prayers for peace, I