Jasper County Democrat, Volume 20, Number 103, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 27 March 1918 — U.S. BUYS 12 JAP SHIPS [ARTICLE]

U.S. BUYS 12 JAP SHIPS

TOKYO GIVES 100,000 TONS IN EXCHANGE FOR STEEL Negotiations Are Proceeding for Transfer of, 200,000 More Tone on the Same Basis. Washington, March 29.—Formal announcement by the war trade board of the new shipping arrangement between the United States and Japan shows that Japan is to turn over to the American fleet immediately twelve big steamers of 1< *O,OOO tons dead weight capacity, in return for steel supplies. Negotiations are proceeding for the transfer of 200.000 tons of new construction on the same basis. A survey of transportation and port facilities is now being made by representatives of the railroads and the fuel and shipping board- As quickly as possible terminal facilities will be added to and the nieans for the bunkering of the vessels improved. It is believed that the study which is being made of the situation may form the ground work for the organization of the nation's transportation and producing power on a new basis that will have far-reaching effect upon the future of the nation. The immediate purpose, however, is to increase efficiency in all directions for war purposes. The program will include the development and . more extended use of South Atlantic ami gulf ports of importance in all trades.