Great Britain's War Debts Lord Samuel performed a useful service
last week in raising the question of this country's debt to the United States in the debate on the Finance Bill in the. House of Lords. Even should his speech have no immediate effect, it is well that Americans should know that not everyone in this country regards the debt question as closed. Many indeed would be glad if in some form or other the United States could be informed that the British Government would be willing, at an appropriate date; to honour this country's obligations if proper allowance is made for the changed circumstances of today. A resumption of token payments would give such an assurance. There is no doubt of the irritation and suspicion Britain's default has caused in America ; but Lord Samuel rightly insisted that, even though the removal of that irritation would be of inestimable benefit, that is not the chief reason for resuming payments. The chief reason is that international obligations should either be discharged or altered by agreement between the contracting parties ; and it is in fact the feeling that this principle is strictly adhered to by this country which would do most to consolidate and increase the friendship that already exists between the United States and Great Britain.
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