Anglo-American Control
p. 10 · Read in the full issue
Suggested
LATE in March, the situation regarding: con trol of certain Central Pacific Islands, held by the British and desired by the United States, was puzzling. It was stated, for instance, that the Americans were going to “annex” Can ton and Enderbury Islands (Phoenix Group), and already had landed American officials thereon, although British officials were already there, In nossession. It was said that the Americans were likely to take Christmas and other islands in the vicinity. Yet there was no sign of friction between London and Washington.
The situation was cleared up by the following news despatch in the “Sydney Morning Herald” of March 29, dated London, March 28:— The Diplomatic Corresnondent of the Australian Associated Press under stands that Enderbury and Canton Islands, in the Phoenix Group, and several other islands in the Central Pacific may shortly be placed under the joint control of the British Empire and the United States, with the Union Jack and Stars and Stripes flying side by side.
It is hoped that this will solve the dispute concerning the ownership of the islands, and provide the world with a striking example of peaceful adjustment of international differences.
Negotiations are proceeding, directed personally, it is understood, by the Prime Minister of Great Britain, Mr. Chamber lain, and President Roosevelt, and it is hoped that an agreement will be con cluded in a fortnight. It would be sub ject to approval by the Dominions.
The joint control would be tantamount to a condominium form of administra tion, but more practicable than that exercised by Britain and France over the New Hebrides. It would be on a “share trust” two-Power standard, in which both nations would be jointly responsible for defence and maintenance, and would jointly use the islands as bases for trans-Pacific air services.
It was announced recently that the United States coastguard cutter “Taney” had raised the United States flag on Canton and Enderbury Islands. Brit ish flags already there were not touched.