National Affairs: A New World Court

Mr. Harding and Mr. Hughes proposed that the United States join The Hague Permanent Court of International Justice. The suggestion gained the support of two men as far apart politically as former President Wilson and Ambassador Harvey.

The Court acts independently of the League of Nations. It is composed of 15 judges, chosen by the League, who serve nine-year terms. They will build up a body of law upon which to base their decisions, which will not be reviewed by the League. The decisions will not be put into effect by force, but by prestige and public opinion.

" Such action," Mr. Harding told the Senate, " would add to our own consciousness of participation in the fortunate advancement of international relationship and remind the world anew that we are ready for our proper part in furthering peace and adding to stability in world affairs."

Whether or not the plan is put into effect by this Congress or another or not at all, the multiplication of such proposals coming from our own government shows a growing sense of American discontent with isolation.