The announcement of the decision to proceed with the Singapore ba: thas yeintensified press comments against the scheme, which, with the American naval manauvees in 1925, has been a constant topic of dise: sion for several weeks past.
Thegviow is practically unanimous that the construction of the base will be more productive of harm than good, because it is contrary to tthe spirit, if not the letter, of the Washington agreements, is likely to create misunderstanding and pro-in armaments. ane\ tie" while recognizing that Singapore' purely a British Aomestic concern, calls: attention to the possibility of misunderstanding on the part of the Japanese; who, spite of the absence of an alliance, always regard Great Britain with respect and friendship.
The "Chugai" is of the opinion that the alleged reason for the base, namely, for the defence Australia, is unjustifiable in view of the Washington, quadruple agreement, which renders Australia. imjune from attack.
The "Kokumin" declares that Japan will have to modify her fence policy, while the "Yamato" asserts that' the base nullifies the naval rations agreed on at Washington to ensure the safety of Japan.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.