Norwich bulletin., 1921-07-22
INFORMAL EXCHANGE
 OF VIEWS WITH JAPAN

Washington, July q (By the A. P.)- Renewed confidence that Japan will rconsent to a broad discussion of far eastern problems as part of the disarm- anIent conference was evident in official circles here tonight after another infor- nal exchange of views between the Ja- panese and American governments.
 During the day the Japanese ambas- sador. Baron Shidehara, called or Sec retary Hughes and they are understood to have discussed the situation at length It was indicated afterward that the mu- tual exchange wts regarded as helpful by both sides and that the conversations soon might reach a stage making possi- ble a more forna' diplomatic correspon T. ence on the subject.
 There was every evidence that the American government remained unshak- en in it's belief that to definitely elinni- nate any subject from the scope of the conference beforehand, might prove a serious barrier to the disarmament dis eussion itself. On ohe other hand 1t was indicated that American officials had no desire to formulate 8 list of the questions that it thinks should be dis cussed, and would be quite content if the Tokio governmer. simply agreed to come into the conference with an open mind as to considera ton of anything vital to a QlSafQamenC a2reeIHSHl-
 Those in charge of the preliminary negotiations here have heard with much interest the suggestion that some of the troubles of the conference might be obviated if such questions as the dispo- | ton of the Pacific Isl9nd of Tap and the control of Shantung peninsula were set tied before the delegates assembled. AL ] though oficia, comment is lacking it is manifest that such development would be highly pleasing to American officials an dthat some steps may be taken to speed these questions toward solution.
 It is considered entirely likely that to this end negotiations regarding Yap may be actively resumed. There already has been some diplomatic correspondence on the subject, but thus far the negotia- 1 tions have been in-conclusive.
 In the case of Shantung, the indicated view of the state department has been that any dispute over sovereignty should i be a subject of negotiations between Japan and China. Reports have reached here that Tokio is ready to undertake such negotiation and it would occasion no surprise if China were encouraged to take similar attitude.
 The view advanced in some Japanese quarters that both Yap and Shantung should be regarded as closed incidents l conference apparently has found little support here.
 It was indicated today that despite the suggestion of British dominion states men for a postponement of the confer ence until next spring, officials here be- lieved tie plan to begin sessions by ear ly November would find general accept ance It is realized that some of the dominion premiers may be put to incon- venience because their parliaments will
 be in session during the fall, and In
 some quarters it has been suggested that
 the date of the conference be advanced
 10 permit them to attend before the par. itamentary sittings begin. There has been no indication that the question hat been officially called to the attention ot the state department however, and the
 general disposition is to attempt no de
 finite decision for the present.