The Indianapolis times. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1922-1965, 1927-03-01
THAT BRITISH WARSHIP


Great Britain's decision to send warship to
Nicaragua complexities already puzzling situation
There is increased reason for the Senate For
eign Relations Committee to examine the Central
American middle on the spot. If the Senate is to
deal intelligently with this Governments assumed
protectorate Nicaragua the proposed treaty to
legaze that protecorate, and the relation of Great
Britain thereto, the Senate have access to the
facts.
Our Constitution wisely intrusts our foreign pol
icy to the joint responsibility of the executive and
legislative branches What objection can President
Coolidge and Secretary kellogg have to the Senate
committees equippng itself to share that RESPONSE
bil1ty integently? The proposed visit to the Carb-
bean should be made when Congress adjourns.
Great Britain's action is dsagreeable surprise
to this Government, though it's immediate eff
feet may be to strengthen the Presidents argument
that must 'pacfy" Nicaragua or permit some
European nation to do the job.
But the political advantage to the Administration
may not be worth the cost. More than anything
else the Administration wants free hand in Mica.
ragua without other foreign interference That has
meant Mexico thus far But it also means Great
Britain.
What was the real British motive in sending
the Administration. Officials properly dismiss the
British explanation that the United States refused
to promise protection to Britons SO London had to
send ship of refuge. The American note of reply
pointed out that such of protection were
given Great Britain and that United States marines
and warships according them equal protection
with Americans there.
According to reports from abroad Great Brit.
ain is concerned over the DazKeogg negotiations
Tor United States protectorate over Nicaragua
Such protectorate would affect British nationals
and property interess there which are larger than
American investments The British warshp at
Corinto will be reminder that Great Britain has
not yet recognized the Coolidge "corolary" of the
monroe Doctrine-that the United States is the sole
guardian OF all foreign interests in Central America
ms Government has been stretching the Monroe
Doctrine until it now serves as basis for United
States dominion over the Caribbean countries
Doubtless Great Britain with her own hegemony
claims elsewhere upon which the sun never sets)
Will find it expedent to keep hands off in the
Caribbean
The present British gesture, however. suggests
trade may be involved. London is dissatisfied with
lack OF American cooperation in China for Instance
decidedly there are principles in the Nicaraguan
SITUATION other than alleged Mexican leadership in
an antl-Yankee movement, which the Senate com
mIttee may find interesting
There is grave danger that the Nicaragdan tur
MOL may be settled in violation of certain oldfash
Toned American principles
Self determination for other peoples,
Noninterference by the United States in domes-
tic affairs of other countries
borah should carry out his plan for trip to
Central America
reaches Browning refused to be interviewed IN
her return from Bermuda. The public owes her its
thanks.