EFFECT OF THE REPORTED AGREEMENT

Wairarapa Times-Age, 24 July 1939, Page 6

EFFECT OF THE REPORTED AGREEMENT

Neutrality on Same Basis as Other Powers

AXIS POWERS LIKELY TO BE DISAPPOINTED TALK OF DRIVING A WEDGE (By Telegraph.—Press Association.—Copyright.) (Received This Day, 12.40 p.m.) LONDON, July 23. A Tokio correspondent of the ‘‘Times” says the AngloJapanese formula contains two declarations on British policy: (1) Recognition of the .Japanese Army s right to protect its interest,s in the occupied areas. (2) No encouragement of activities embarrassing the Army’s action. The correspondent adds that Britain undertook to adttse her agents in China of this development. This formula places British neutrality on the same basis as that ol America and o.ther Bowers. Neutral diplomatic opinion regards the settlement as more moderate than it at first appeared. It is possible that the tone of the Axis Powers will be one of sharp disappointment. Already the militant elements are sounding the warning that Britain' will drive a wedge between Japan and the Axis Powers.

CHAGRIN IN ITALY

ALLEGATIONS OF BRITISH SURRENDER. (Received This Day, 12.40 p.m.) LONDON, July 23. The Rome correspondent of the “Times” says political circles are displeased with the Anglo-Japanese agreement, as they counted on the dispute weakening British diplomacy in Europe and- say it is a complete British surrender. FRENCH APPROVAL By Telegraph—Press Association —Copyright. (Received This Day, 12.40 p.m.) PARIS, July 23. The press applauds the agreement, saying it strengthens the British position in Europe and avoids an Eastern diversion.