I am not one of those who feel statehood for Hawaii and Alaska more than any other reason will hold Asia from the Communists. I doubt not other and larger elements will decide that. But not for one moment will I grant that conferring of statehood will not be of real importance in swaying the minds of Asiatic people. The significance of this was correctly expressed by the Department of State on February 4 last in reporting on the combined statehood bill in these words: Among the more important tests applied to American policy and actions by the nations of Asia. the Near East. Africa. and Latin America is the extent to which we manifest our support for the aspirations of dependent peoples for selfgovernment.