British policy in the Far East 1937-1939

Abstract

Britain's naval power in the world and the Far East and her commercial and political stake in China. Britain's attitude towards Japanese aggression in relation to American isolationism and the deteriorating European situation in 1937. Part I (1937-1938). Britain's reaction to the Sino-Japanese conflict is connected with America's refusal to contemplate joint action of which the Brussel' s Conference is an example. Increasing Japanese attacks on foreign interests alarmed both Britain and America and staff conversations took place in January 1938. Collective security through the League of Nations failed in 1937-38, and Britain separately considered means of aiding China. The situation at Shanghai and Tientsin indicate the danger to British political and economic interests in the face of Japanese attacks. Part II (1938-1939). The European situation, the American attitude and the progress of British rearmament conditioned British policy in the Far East during 1938-39. The conflicting views of the British Embassies in China and Japan increased Lord Halifax's difficulties. During 1938-39 League action again failed and Britain became increasingly concerned with the Anti-Comintern negotiations at Shanghai, Tientsin and Hankow and throughout China Britain economically and politically lost ground. The British also considered the possibility of further credits to China, of sanctions against Japan and the desirability of a Chinese declaration of war. Part III The situation at Tientsin is taken to the Tokyo talks in July 1939. The Anglo-Japanese formula and the denunciation of the American-Japanese trade treaty by America brought reactions in Britain and Japan. The negotiations at Tokyo are divided into questions relating to public order and currency matters. The Nazi Soviet non-aggression pact created new circumstances in the Far East for Britain. Conclusion. Appeasement had left Britain weak. American isolation and German aggression gave Britain no choice but to constantly negotiate with Japan until the British rearmament programme was complete