A Policy Statement ?
A letter from Sir Norman Angell in The Times of Monday initiated what has already become an important correspondence in the columns of that journal. Sir Norman raises two questions (one discussed by Mr. Wickham Steed and one by Dr. Edwyn Bevan in this issue of The Spectator), the formulation of definite principles of British policy, and a frank discussion of Germany's charges of encirclement. With Lord Halifax's recent speeches, insisting on (1) a firm front against aggression, and (2) complete readiness to consider any reasonable claim, there has been general agree- ment. The question is whether the second point in that policy can be expanded and given definition, and whether it would make for a better understanding with Germany if it were. Sir Norman Angell carries the matter a little further, suggesting a three-point programme, stipulating, in brief, that recipients of aid against aggression must undertake to conform to a rule of law ; the " Peace Front" must repudiate all idea of domination over Germany and stand only for the domination of an agreed code of law ; the Peace Front must be open to all and provide for the peaceful settle- ment of all disputes. Whether it is possible at the present juncture to go beyond this, and whether, if it is, the British Government could properly issue a statement of its own, apart from France—and Poland—and Russia—is a question that calls for very full consideration. But that the question should be competently discussed both in public and in private is of undoubted benefit.
