Wednesday, 28 May

President Roosevelt made a long speech involving full emergency powers in the U.S.A. He emphasised the importance of the freedom of the seas and clearly enunciated again the U.S.A’s policy of material aid to Great Britain and China. Regarding delivery he said “delivery of needed supplies to Britain is imperative. This can be, must be and will be done.” Though enough is not said about Japanese aggression, the speech is quite welcomed. Great Britain is in a very difficult state. Their leaders, according to news from Washington, frankly give American officials the impression that she (Britain) may not be able to hold out for more than a year without American aid. The President’s speech, though good in itself, may not satisfy the British public.