Q&A · 1:01:39-1:04:25

How would the dominions react to an Anglo-Japanese royal marriage?

The marriage scenario gives Australia and New Zealand a security interest while Canada's concern centers on the United States.

Question

Would the dominions obstruct a British royal marriage to a Japanese princess?

Short answer

Australia and New Zealand are expected to see security benefits, Canada to worry about America, and South Africa to accept a pragmatic arrangement.

Notes

One participant doubts that the dominions would exercise much influence over a marriage removed from day-to-day politics. Clarke allows for influence but expects Australia and New Zealand to welcome a connection that sustained some security benefits of the former alliance. Canada would be more concerned about the American response. South Africa is expected to accept a pragmatic arrangement in the postwar search for peace. These are proposed reactions to a royal marriage, with the Duke's position behind Edward used to explain why immediate constitutional fears might remain limited.