DECEMBER 1921

DECEMBER 1921 THE [GERMAN] FINANCIAL CRISIS London, November 29 – A important conference is proceeding between Herr Rathenau EFERENCES RATHENAU. Walter (1867 – 1922). Jewish-German industrialist, writer and liberal politician. During the First World War of 1914–1918 he was involved in the organisation of the German war economy. After the war, he served as German Foreign Minister (February to June 1922) of the Weimar Republic. He initiated the 1922 Treaty of Rapallo, which removed major obstacles to trading with Soviet Russia. Although Russia was already aiding Germany's secret rearmament programme, right-wing nationalist groups branded him a revolutionary, also resenting his background as a successful Jewish businessman. Two months after the signing of the treaty, he was assassinated by the right-wing terrorist group Organisation Consul in Berlin.., Herr Simons SIMONS, Walter (1861 – 1937). German lawyer and politician. He was Foreign Minister of the Weimar Republic in 1920-21 and served as president of the Supreme Court from 1922 to 1929. On 15 October 1918, shortly before the German Revolution of 1918-19, Chancellor Max von Baden made him advisor to the Chancellory. In November 1918, he became director and head of the law department at the Foreign Office. In 1919, as a close staff member of Foreign Minister Ulrich von Brockdorff-Rantzau, he was Undersecretary and Commissar of the German delegation at Versailles. He never joined a political party but served from June 1920 to May 1921 in the Fehrenbach cabinet as Foreign Minister and was the Reich representative at the Spa Conference and the Londoner Konferenz (1921)., Sir Robert Horne HORNE, Robert, 1st Viscount Horne of Slamannan (1871 – 1940). Scottish businessman, advocate and Unionist politician. He served under David Lloyd George as Minister of Labour between 1919 and 1920, as President of the Board of Trade between 1920 and 1921 and as Chancellor of the Exchequer between 1921 and 1922. In 1937 he was ennobled as Viscount Horne of Slamannan., Lord D’Abernon VICENT, Edgar, 1st Viscount D’Abernon (1857 – 1941). British politician, diplomat, art collector and author. In 1878 he was appointed Commissioner for the Evacuation of Thessaly (ceded to Greece by Turkey) and advised the Egyptian government on financial matters from 1883 to 1889. That year, he became governor of the Imperial Ottoman Bank. In 1899, he was elected a Conservative Member of Parliament and held the seat until 1906. He opposed the Conservative policy of Tariff Reform and unsuccessfully stood for the Liberal Party in Colchester in December 1910. In July 1914 he was raised to the peerage as Baron D'Abernon of Esher, Surrey. He was part of the Interallied Mission to Poland in July 1920, during the Polish-Soviet War. From 1920 to 1925, D'Abernon was the British Ambassador to Berlin. , and Sir John Bradbury BRADBURY, John, 1st Baron Bradbury (1872 -1950). British economist and public servant. He served as Private Secretary to the Chancellor of the Exchequer H. H. Asquith from 1905 to 1908, as Principal Clerk in the Treasury and First Treasury Officer of Accounts from 1908 to 1911, as Joint Permanent Secretary to the Treasury from 1913 to 1919 and as the Principal British Delegate to the Reparations Commission in Paris from 1919 to 1925. During the First World War he was the government's chief economic adviser. In the 1925 New Year Honours, he was raised to the peerage as Baron Bradbury, of Winsford in the County of Chester.. Herr Simons is an economic expert, and must not be confused with the late German Foreign Minister – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Otago Daily Times (Otago, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 Paris, November 29 –The Paris newspapers are following the Anglo-German conversations with the closest interest. One leading paper says that what it characterises as Mr Lloyd George’s latest offensive is nothing less than the substitution of a new reparations policy for that which was fixed by the Versailles Treaty. Mr Lloyd George looks forward to the reestablishment of the international exchange. He sees markets opened before Great Britain that at present are closed to her. On Germany will be laid the burden only of restoring the devastated regions – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Otago Daily Times (Otago, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 London, November 29 – The Central News Agency states that Herr Rathenau and Herr Simon came to England to discuss with Sir Robert Horne (Chancellor of the Exchequer) the reparations question, also (if they are permitted to do so) the question of' a moratorium. Lord D’Abernon (British Ambassador at Berlin) has been in London for five days. He had several conferences with Sir Robert Horne, whom Herr Rathenau and Herr Simons will meet in the course of the next few days – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Otago Daily Times (Otago, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 Paris, November 29 – It is stated on high authority that the British section of the Reparations Commission, as the outcome of their recent visit to Berlin, have advised the British Government that a moratorium must be granted Germany for two years. If Germany can meet the January instalment—and this is the pinch—the French would probably take a reasonable view of a moratorium – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Otago Daily Times (Otago, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 London, November 29 –The British Government is closely considering every aspect of the German reparation question. A recent British Note to France points out that Britain cannot expect to ratify other outstanding financial agreements unless France ratifies the agreement of. August 30, which laid down that the reparations instalment of one milliard of mark’ paid by Germany on August 31 should be devoted, first, to paying the costs of the army of occupation, and, secondly, to satisfying priority claims of Belgium. The Note asks how France intends to safeguard the interests of Germany’s other creditors if the Wiesbaden agreement is enforced. It is believed in this connection that Herr Rathenau’s visit to London is not unconnected with the submission to Britain, of proposals similar to the Wiesbaden agreement – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Otago Daily Times (Otago, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 THE [SPANISH] FOREIGN LEGION London, November 29 – Mr Ernest Brandon-Cremer, formerly of Melbourne, was the only Australian who served in the Spanish Foreign Legion. Interviewed, he said that he served in the Eighth Australian. Light Horse in Egypt, Palestine, and Mesopotamia. He was wounded and took his discharge in England, medically unfit, at the end of 1917. Nevertheless, he succeeded in entering the British Garrison Artillery, but he did not see further active service. When he was discharged in February, 1919, he learned that he had sacrificed his right to repatriation. He found employment as a kinema operator, this lasting for 15 months. He then went to Africa for a year on similar work. On returning to England in 1921 he found trade dead. He traversed England afoot seeking work. Meanwhile, his wife (an (English woman) died. He had drawn and spent his Australian gratuity, and he was now down and out. When the chance offered to enlist in the Spanish Legion he was one of the first to join. He walked from London to Southampton to join up. Transport troubles began at Ceuta, where the legionaries were immediately surrounded by guards. He never enjoyed an hour’s freedom afterwards. Two days later the legionaries were shipped back to Spain. They presented a fine martial appearance when they paraded at Malaga, where they were enthusiastically received by the populace. After two days they reshipped to Melilla. They were supplied with indifferent Mausers of Spanish manufacture. and with blood-stained equipment which had been take from the dead. He got through three months’ guerrilla warfare unhurt. It was all rifle fighting against the Moors, who had the advantage if hill positions, a fact which accounted for the heavy Spanish losses. Mr Brandon-Cremer took part in 11 battles. The. Moors were good shots, but they would not face the bayonet charges, which the Spanish invariably left to the legionaries to carry out. The Spanish officers and non-commissioned officers throughout inflicted physical punishment for the slightest errors, which were mostly due to the British net understanding the language. One non – commissioned officer struck him in the face with his rifle, smashing his false teeth. He suffered from dysentery throughout the campaign, but was forced to carry on. The British had to try to explain everything to the harshest non –commissioned officers and officers by means of signs. Mr Brandon-Cremer is new penniless and workless – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Otago Daily News, Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 [FRANCE’S VIEW ON] DISARMAMENT Washington, November 28 – The special representative of the Press Association interviewed M. Viviani VIVIANI, Rene (1863 – 1925). French politician of the Third Republic, who served as Prime Minister for the first year of World War. In April 1917 Viviani led a mission to the US, which had just entered the war "associated with" the Allies. He was overshadowed by Marshal Joffre, who attracted much more attention from the American press. During Viviani's time as prime minister, a law was adopted in July 1915 providing for special boards to fix such a wage for women employed in home-work in the clothing industry. with regard to the possibility of Germany and other unrepresented countries taking part in the present conference. M. Viviani said that he had no reason to believe that Germany would be invited. If it were necessary to widen the scope of the conference regarding the Powers represented, that would be a matter for the future. He would fully approve of a wider scope as regards other conferences, especially regarding Germany. The present meeting, however, was dealing with the Far East and Pacific questions, in which Germany had how no status. The Versailles Treaty fully covered the position of Germany regarding land armament. The financial aspect of the Franco-German problems would be taken up directly at Wiesbaden, and a first agreement being reached between M. Loucheur LOUCHEUR, Louis (1872 – 1931). French politician. He served a Minister of Armaments (1917 – 1918) and Minister of Industrial Re-construction (1918 – 1920) under Clemenceau. He was Minister of Liberated Regions from 16 January 1921 to 15 January 1922 in the 7th cabinet of Aristide Briand. He was briefly Minister of Commerce, Industry, Posts, and Telegraphs under Raymond Poincaré in 1924. He also served as Minister of Finance in Aristide Briand's seventh Government during 1925 and 1926. and Herr Rathenau, France would be prepared for father meetings similar to Wiesbaden; but there was no need for Germany to come over here. If the world was interested in the Franco-German dealings in fulfilment of the Versailles pledges, well then they entailed powers guaranteeing the engagements made by Germany and for enforcing them if dishonoured. M. Viviani declared that the views which he expressed on the financial aspect were his own, as he was not at present a member of the Government. He proposes to. leave on December 14, but if serious problems demand it he will remain. The mere internal work of the committees would not justify his staying – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Otago Daily Times (Otago, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 JAPANESE GENERAL’S VIEWS Tokyo, November 28 – The press is devoting, much space to Japan’s demand for a 70 per cent, naval ratio, but the public declines to become aroused, caring less about the details than the general idea of saying money through a limitation of navies. A disturbing feature is the cables from America, which aim at creating the impression that a majority of Americans are adopting a hostile attitude towards Japan. In reference to the military limitations, General Kono, in an article in the newspaper Asahi Shimbun. urges the Japanese army authorities voluntarily to propose a reduction and anticipate any decision reached by the Washington Conference, thus setting the world an example. He adds: “World thought today is unmistakably flowing towards the ideal of international peace, with a fixed determination for a real drastic limitation of armaments. He deplores the fact that many Japanese, particularly army leaders, misinterpret American motives, and look suspiciously at the conference. Japan would do better to take America into her full confidence. Japan would benefit most by disarmament”. His article is one of many, which are equally frank –Reuter – Otago Daily Times (Otago, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 THE FAR EAST Washington, November 29 – It is officially announced that the following resolution regarding extra territoriality was adopted at to-day’s Far Eastern session: “The Governments of the eight Powers, sitting in conference shall establish a commission of one member each, to inquire into the present practice of the extra territoriality laws, the judicial system and the administration of China with a view to reporting its findings and facts thereon, and recommending such means as it may find suitable to improve the existing conditions of Chinese justice, and to assist the efforts of China to effect such legislative and judicial reforms as shall warrant the several Powers in relinquishing progressively or their respective territorial rights, the commission to be instructed to submit a report and recommendations within a year after its first meeting. Each of the Powers named shall be free to accept or reject 'all or any portion of the recommendations of the commission, but not to make the acceptance of such recommendations directly or indirectly dependent on China’s granting any official concession, favour, or benefit. Provision will also be made for the acceptance of the findings of the commission by the non-signatory Powers. “China expresses its satisfaction with the above resolution, and declares her intention to appoint a representative to the commission with the right to sit as a member, it being understood that China will have the right to accept or reject all or any recommendation of the commission. China is -prepared to co-operate in every way with the commission, and to afford it every facility”. A Chinese protest The Chinese spokesman made a statement protesting against the maintenance in Chinese territory without Chinese consent and against her protests of foreign troops, railway guards, police, electrical wire and wireless communication installation. He asked for a declaration from the conference that none of the Powers shall maintain any of the foregoing unless it can prove conclusively that it has a right to do so under the accepted basis of international law, and that any such now existing upon the soil of China shall be immediately withdrawn. China also submitted data showing the disposition and the number of foreign troops, especially Japanese, in China and Manchuria, the position of the wireless stations, etc.—Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Otago Daily Times (Otago, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 PEACE OR WAR? London, November 29 – In the course of his speech in the Ulster Parliament, Sir James Craig CRAIG, James 1st Viscount Craigavon (1871 – 1940). Prominent Irish unionist politician, leader of the Ulster Unionist Party and the first Prime Minister of Northern Ireland from 1921 until his death in 1940. He was born at Sydenham, Belfast, the son of James Craig (1828–1900), a wealthy whiskey distiller. He enlisted in the 3rd (Militia) battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles on 17 January 1900 to serve in the Second Boer War. After arrival he was soon sent to the front, and was taken prisoner in May 1900, but released by the Boers because of a perforated colon. On his recovery he became deputy assistant director of the Imperial Military Railways, showing the qualities of organisation that were to mark his involvement in both British and Ulster politics. On his return to Ireland, having received a £100,000 legacy from his father's will, he turned to politics, serving as Member of the British Parliament for East Down from 1906 to 1918. He rallied Ulster loyalist opposition to Irish Home Rule in Ulster before the First World War, organising the paramilitary Ulster Volunteers (UVF) and buying arms from Imperial Germany. The UVF became the nucleus of the 36th (Ulster) Division during the First World War. He succeeded Edward Carson as leader of the Ulster Unionist Party in February 1921. On 7 June 1921, Craig was appointed the first Prime Minister of Northern Ireland by the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. In April 1939, and again in May 1940 in the Second World War, he called for conscription to be introduced in Northern Ireland (which the British government, fearing a backlash from nationalists, refused). He was still prime minister when he died peacefully at his home at Glencraig, County Down at the age of 69. He was buried on the Stormont Estate on 5 December 1940, and was succeeded as the Prime Minister of Northern Ireland by the Minister of Finance, John Miller Andrews. said: “The British Government’s scheme was for an Ali-Ireland Parliament. We will not have it.” He warned the British Cabinet to understand fully that this was not alone the determination of the Ulster Cabinet, but of the whole of the Ulster people. They would not contemplate going under a Sinn Fein Government in the present circumstances. Ulster would be neither intimidated nor coerced. They were not blocking a settlement. . Sinn Fein now had a week in which to say whether it would continue to work for a settlement or whether the negotiations should be terminated. Sir James Craig added that, owing to Sinn Fein outrages in the past week, an arrangement had been made with the Imperial authorities to send additional troops to Ulster –Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Otago Daily Times (Otago, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 7 BRITAIN AND EUROPE London, November 30 – Mr Churchill, speaking at the Overseas Bankers’ Association, advocated friendly association between Britain, Franco and Germany for rehabilitation of Europe. Nothing less than that combination would adequately meet the present economic situation in Europe. He was delighted regarding reparation and the steady, remorseless march, of statesmen, towards financial sanity. “The nonsensical froth of politicians and financiers about extracting twenty thousand millions from Germany reduced itself to a much more practical statement in our case”, he said. “Our financial and industrial position was seriously affected by the war. We formerly were able to purchase from the United States necessary commodities on favourable terms on the security of our investments. Those securities had gone. In addition to that loss there is our debt to the United States, which makes the purchase of raw material in the American market difficult. We must do all wo can to revive the consuming power of Europe and Asia and make peace, but if we have only East- and West to rely on, our position and outlook must be black. But the dominions have an outlet for our energy which deserves cur financial support. Before giving our money to strangers, let us be sure there is not in the Empire a surer means of securing a swift, certain return. Undoubtedly in the Empire you will find limitless sources of wealth. I am responsible for a considerable policy of colonial loans, but we must not strain the credit of the money market beyond reason, though in years to come these processes will conduce to the greater strengthening of the Empire” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Star (Christchurch, NZ), Thursday 1st December 1921, page 2 AMERICA HIT HARD American business is suffering very severely from the slump, a Wellington reporter was told by Mr George Shortcliffe, who has just returned from a visit to the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of the United States. He spent two months there, and visited most of the principal coastal cities. “At all points 1 heard very doleful accounts of the state of things industrially and commercially”, he said, “while the losses that have been made during the last 18 months by trading concerns appear to have been colossal. There have been many failures of concerns which sprang up during the war period, and these have disappeared entirely. But there are many of the old-established houses that have been more or less crippled in the slump. They have only been able to carry on with the very substantial assistance of the banks, which prefer to extend such assistance rattier than compel the firms to wind up. and thus precipitate further huge leases that may be averted by careful nursing. “The export business of the United States is undoubtedly in a very bad way, owing mainly ’to the adverse exchange, which is operating to the extent of 5s to 6s 8d in the £ against the export of American goods. To some extent the position is aggravated by the United States emergency tariff, which is restricting oversea imports into America, and thus limiting the ability of oversea countries to import goods from America in return. One may say, therefore, that American exports today are limited to such goods as oversea countries cannot obtain elsewhere. The American dollar is at n higher premium than any other currency in the world, which is not an unmixed blessing. “I should say that much as we deplore the slump and the financial stringency here, my feeling is that the position in the United States is very much worse than in New Zealand” – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Friday 2nd December 1921, page 1 IRISH TROUBLES London, November 30 – The Daily Mail says the new Irish scheme involves full self-government tor the south, with the addition of a second chamber, which can by consent become a joint Senate for North and South. The plan leaves the North intact, excepting for a few concessions. The financial machinery will be adjusted to make a settlement easy and advantageous to both South and North. The Sinn Fein delegates have raised difficulties as to the meaning of certain vital points – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Friday 2nd December 1921, page 2 RUSSIAN SOCIAL CHAOS London, November 30 – Sir Phillip Gibbs GIBBS, Philip KBE (1877 – 1962). British journalist and one of five official British reporters during the First World War. His debut article was published in 1894 in the Daily Chronicle; five years later he published the first of many books, Founders of the Empire. He was given the post of literary editor at Alfred Harmsworth's leading (and growing) tabloid format newspaper the Daily Mail. He subsequently worked on other prominent newspapers including the Daily Express. A man of decidedly liberal views, Gibbs took an interest in popular movements of the time, including the suffragettes, publishing a book on the British women's suffrage movement in 1910. With tensions growing in Europe in the years immediately preceding 1914, he repeatedly expressed a belief that war could be avoided between the Entente and Central Powers. Along with four other men he was officially accredited as a war correspondent, his work appearing in the Daily Telegraph and Daily Chronicle. Gibbs. He produced a stream of newspaper articles and a series of books: The Soul of the War (1915), The Battle of the Somme (1917), From Bapaume to Passchendaele (1918) and The Realities of War (UK title), 1920; "Now it Can Be Told", (United States title), 1920. Gibbs' work in the immediate post-war period was focused on a fear of societal unrest created by brutalised ‘ape-men’ and wartime-employed women who 'were clinging onto their jobs, would not let go of the pocket-money which they had spent on frocks’. He was awarded KBE in the 1920 civilian war honours. Gibbs' post-war career continued to be as varied as ever. Working as a freelance journalist, having resigned from the Daily Chronicle over its support for the Lloyd George government's Irish policy, he published a series of books and articles, including an autobiography, Adventures in Journalism (1923). The outbreak of the Second World War in 1939 brought Gibbs a renewed appointment as a war correspondent, this time for the Daily Sketch. This proved a brief stint however and he spent part of the war employed by the Ministry of Information., reviewing the Russian situation, says: “The Government supplies are restricted mainly to the n>o oi the Soviet workers, and even to them it is a poverty stricken ration. I believe the Government is doing its best, but with best will it can do little. The situation is summed up in a few words. Russia has not a reserve, her. cupboards are bare, and even in Moscow everybody lives from hand to mouth. The Government run hardly pay its officials, or feed its soldiers, who are worn threadbare by war and civil war and the general breakdown of economic life due to social chaos. From their own Government the peasants in the famine area cannot hope for succour. “If is undeniable that the Russians hold on to what they have with desperate selfishness and will not share with anyone. They cannot be blamed if they do not give of their secret hoards to their neighbours, for if they do their own children die. The city folk have not much pity for the peasants, and when they were starving the peasants would not send them food, even destroying it to avoid the Government requisitions, which were one of the minor causes of the famine”. Continuing. Sir Philip says: “The Save the Children Fund is preparing to feed 70,000 children, while the American relief administration is working on a bigger scale with immense energy and actually feeding this month 201,000 children. These are all that are being fed out of a child population of 6,000.000. It is but haphazard relief after all, and all Russians in the hunger zone could have been saved if the cry for help had come sooner from the leaders, if the world Powers had come to rescue quickly, and if the Soviet had been readier to accept help without political control. Good autumn sowings of rye have been made. That is next year’s hope for Russia” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Friday 2nd December 1921, page 2 [ANGLO – FRENCH] RELATIONS STRAINED London, December 1 – The Westminster Gazette’s Paris correspondent, discussing the Anglo – French situation. says: “The trouble is deep-rooted. Sometimes the relationship is more strained that in tile Fashoda days. The truth is, we have been pulling in different directions. There has been a fight for domination. France has long been impressed with the idea that England has been trying to drag her at the English chariot wheels. She felt humiliated at her concessions to the English viewpoint, and complains that she has always been the partner to give way. She was extremely susceptible to any suggestion that she play second fiddle. She was inclined to fly to extremes, and insist that she be followed by England, Germany and Russia. “It is only French cases that are consecrated at Washington. If America is psychologically wise, she will not confine the disarmament proposals to three navies. I cannot too strongly emphasise that more attention should be paid to the mental make-up of France. Most of us are victims of the fallacy that matters can be mended if we do something. “France itches for action. M. Briand is playing straight into the alarmists hands. In proclaiming the danger of an early German revanche, she has placed himself in a most difficult position. If he does not want to break the Entente with most disastrous results to the whole of Europe, I think he will manage to pour oil on the waters, which are more troubled than they have been since the Armistice” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Friday 2nd December 1921, page 2 THE NAVAL RATIO New York, December 1 – The question of the naval ratio is still most prominent. It was elicited in American quarters to-day that while the exports have not reached an actual deadlock, they differ on certain points, the assumption being, that these points will be referred for decision to the big three—Balfour, Hughes, and Kato. It is explained that these differences are of two kinds, one regarding the figures of the formulae alone, in which some inaccuracies are observed as to the basis of calculations. The other difference was as to what factors should be taken into consideration in determining the tonnage and ratio. The American position was that if they are willing to scrap 300,000,000 dollars’ worth of ships under construction, the other Powers should make sacrifices on the same lines. Japan' stands firm The United Press’ Tokyo representative was informed by officials that the Japanese Government has instructed Baron Kato to stand firm on the 70 per cent ratio of naval armament regardless of the consequences. A high official declared that Japan will not yield on this vital point even if it breaks up the Conference. The correspondent thinks, however, this is an extreme official view. The press continues to reflect the strong popular demand for a compromise – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Friday 2nd December 1921, page 3 EGYPT’S FUTURE London, December 1 – Viscount Allenby ALLENBY, Edmund, 1st Viscount Allenby (1861 – 1936). British military and statesman. In command of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force in September 1918 he defeated the Turks at Megiddo, and he went on to take Damascus and Aleppo in Syria. After the war he remained in Egypt as high commissioner until 1925. He was named Viscount Allenby of Megiddo and Felixstowe in October 1919. He retired in 1925 and became rector of Edinburgh University., speaking at Cairo. said the fears regarding Egypt’s future were unnecessary. The British policy, on which he had not received final instructions, was sine to be liberal hut firm. He did not expect an immediate solution, but anticipated eventually a solution safeguarding all interests – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Friday 2nd December 1921, page 3 RECOVERY OF MARK London, November 30 – The Times says: “Due to a possible moratorium, the German mark has hardened, with a sympathetic improvement of French, Belgian, Swiss, Italian, Dutch, Swedish, and Austrian currency. It should be clearly understood Hi at the suggestion of a moratorium is not mad' with a view to obtaining a reduction in the amount fixed by the London Agreement, but to increase the prospect of its payment” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Friday 2nd December 1921, page 3 PROPHET LENIN New York, December 1 – Farley Christenson, the former Labour candidate for the Presidency at the last election, interviewed Lenin for the United Press. Cabling from Riga, Christensen quotes Lenin us predicting war between thee United States and Japan, and admitting the Soviet Communistic had gone right to the bottom. Lenin eagerly questioned the interviewer regarding the possibility of all American-Japanese war. On Christensen stating that Japan and America were friends, and war was unlikely. Lenin insisted that the capitalists would force war eventually, declaring “It is brewing now.” Lenin was also keenly interested in the feeling between America and England. Regarding the Russian famine, Lenin declared they needed grain, and the situation would be worse as the winter progresses. lie appealed to American farmers to send wheat, saying: “If you feed our famine victims, we can put furs on your wives.” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Friday 2nd December 1921, page 3 EUROPE WITHOUT PEACE London, November 13 – Extracts published from a forthcoming book entitled ‘Europe Without Peace,” by Signor Nitti, formerly Prime Minister of Italy, describe the Treaty of Versailles and its derivative treaties as profoundly unjust. Signor Nitti declares that the conviction is growing that, their enforcement is impossible, and the possibility of a crisis overwhelming Europe has alarmed even the most excited minds. Signor Nitti says that it is essential immediately to admit all nations (including Germany) to the League of Nations, and to suppress the Reparation Commission, “which is an absurd union of conquerors”. France, whose state of mind is most disquieting. must be assured by Great Britain and Italy against aggression for at least 20 years, but all her troops must be withdrawn from the Rhine and Upper Silesia, which must be without qualification restored to Germany. All inter-Allied war debts most he cancelled and the German indemnity reduced to 60,000 million gold marks by her assumption of 20 per cent of the Allied debt. Signor Nitti NITTI, Francesco (1868 – 1953). Italian statesman. A Left Liberal, he served as minister of agriculture, industry, and commerce in 1911–14 and as minister of the treasury in 1917–19. He succeeded Vittorio Emanuele Orlando, the wartime prime minister, in June 1919, in the midst of foreign and domestic crises involving Italian territorial claims disputed by other Allied countries and the economic and fiscal problems created by the war and demobilisation. He resigned on June 9, 1920. He was reelected to parliament in 1921 and served until 1924 but did not enter his name in the election of that year held by the new Fascist regime. For several years he remained in exile in France, devoting himself to writing. During World War II Nitti was arrested by the Germans (August 1943) and interned in Austria but was freed by the Allied victory in 1945. He became a senator of Italy in June 1948. concludes that only through Berlin can Moscow be readied and Russia’s raw material again become available – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Friday 2nd December 1921, page 4 REPARATIONS PROBLEMS Paris, December 1 – Interviewed by L’Intrasigent, Sir John Bradbury declared that a moratorium could not be considered unless Germany formally requested it, which she, up to the present, had not done. The unanimous vote of the Reparations Commission was required before a long deferment of payment could be granted. Sir John Bradbury said he would oppose such a step, as disastrous to the Allies and the world – Reuter – Malaya Tribune (Singapore, SG), Saturday 3rd December 1921, page 5 PACIFIC PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED BY AGREEMENT OF FOUR POWERS; ANGLO-JAPANESE PACT SCRAPPED Washington, Dec. 3 – China achieved historic progress today toward relief from foreign control. She obtained the consent of three powers to surrender important leaseholds of Chinese territory. But Japan, while willing to make other concessions, announced that she would decline to give up Manchuria. Great Britain agreed to relinquish her leasehold of Weihaiwei, a naval base in Shantung Province, on the Yellow Sea, which she acquired in 1898 as a check to Russia's aggression in the Pacific and as a means of preserving the European balance of power in the Far East. France will give up Kwongchowwan, a port in Kwangtung Province, of which Canton is the capital, which she also acquired in 1898 on a ninety-nine year lease for use as a naval base within convenient sailing of French Indo-China. Japan will surrender her Shantung district of Kiaochau, in which the port of Tsingtao is included, asserting that this concession may be considered in the negotiations now in progress between China and Japan for a settlement of the whole Shantung controversy. Clings to Hold on Manchuria But Japan, in surrendering Kiaochau, reasserted her intention of remaining on the Asiatic mainland by declaring she has no intention at present to relinquish the important rights she has lawfully acquired in Manchuria. Masanao Hanihara, the Japanese Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, pointed out that Japan's purpose to retain her Manchurian holdings would permit of no discussion of their possible relinquishment before the armament conference. Her possession of Manchuria, which she acquired from Russia as a result of the Russo-Japanese War, includes military and civil control of virtually the whole 363,000 square miles, with the fortress of Port Arthur, on the Liaotung Peninsula, and Dairen, a port on the Kwangtung Peninsula, and the South Manchuria Railway connecting the ports with the trans-Siberian system. Japan's emphatic refusal to yield to any suggestion before the conference looking to her surrender of Manchuria or any rights m it almost transcended in importance her own and the other powers' agreement to surrender leaseholds along the Chinese coast. The Japanese delegates' announcement of their country's intention regarding Manchuria was received under dramatic circumstances. Mr. Hanihara arose from beside his colleague, Prince Tokugawa, in the chamber occupied by the conference committee on Pacific and Far Eastern questions, and after stating that Japan would give up her leasehold on Kiaochau, began to state emphatically that, the Mikado's government intended to remain in Manchuria. Ready to Quit Shantung Arthur J. Balfour BALFOUR, Arthur (1848 – 1930). British Conservative statesman who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1902 to 1905. As Foreign Secretary in the Lloyd George ministry, he issued the Balfour Declaration in 1917 on behalf of the cabinet. Trained as a philosopher – he originated an argument against believing that human reason could determine truth – and was seen as having a detached attitude to life, epitomised by a remark attributed to him: "Nothing matters very much and few things matter at all"., for Great Britain, and M. Viviani, for France, had told of their respective governments' willingness-to give up ninety-nine-year leaseholds on condition that the renunciations were to be carried out by all the powers concerned. As her part in that arrangement, Mr. Hanihara said, Japan would surrender the district in Shantung, but he expressed the desire that such a stipulated concession would be taken into consideration in the negotiations now under way between Japan and China under the friendly auspices of Great Britain and America. “The only leased territory, therefore, which remains to be discussed at the conference so far as Japan is concerned”, said Mr. Hanihara, “is Kwantung Province, Port Arthur and Dairen. As to that territory, the Japanese delegates desire to make it clear that Japan has no intention at present to relinquish the important rights she has lawfully acquired and at no small sacrifice. The territory in question forms a part of Manchuria, a region where, by reason of its close propiquity to Japan's territory, more than anything else, she has vital interests in that which relates to her economic life and national safety. “This fact was recognized and assurance was given by the American, British and French governments at the time of the formation of the international consortium that these vital interests of Japan in the region in question shall be safeguarded”. Essential to economic life “In the leased territory of Kwantung province there reside no less than 65,000 Japanese, and the commercial and industrial interests they have established there are of such importance and magnitude to Japan that they are regarded as an essential part of her economic life”. Mr. Hanihara concluded by asserting that the attitude of his government in regard to Manchuria could not be considered a violation of the principles adopted by the conference on November 21, by which all the powers agreed to recognize China's territorial integrity. These principles were drafted by Elihu Root ROOT, Elihu (1845 – 1937). American lawyer and statesman who served as the Secretary of State under President Theodore Roosevelt and as Secretary of War under Roosevelt and President William McKinley. He as the leading moderniser in the history of the War Department, transforming the Army from a motley collection of units into a modern military machine comparable to the best in Europe. He restructured the National Guard into an effective reserve, created the Army War College for the advanced study of military doctrine, and set up a general staff. As Secretary of State under Theodore Roosevelt, Root modernised the consular service by minimizing patronage, promoted friendly relations with Latin America, and resolved frictions with Japan over the immigration of unskilled workers to the West Coast. In the United States Senate he was a leading proponent of preparedness, with the expectation that the US would enter World War I. President Woodrow Wilson sent him to Russia in 1917 in an unsuccessful effort to establish an alliance with the new revolutionary government that had replaced the czar. He fought over American membership in the League of Nations with certain reservations that allowed the United States government to decide whether or not it would go to war. He supported the League of Nations and served on the commission of jurists which created the Permanent Court of International Justice.. Attention was directed to the importance to China of the abolition of leases on her territory, which have been in effect for twenty-three years and which were to have continued for seventy-six years longer. The system adopted by European powers for leasing territory in China was initiated by the aggressions of Germany, whose forcible occupation in 1898 of part of Shantung Province constrained the Chinese government to grant a lease for ninety-nine years of the Bay of Kiao-chau in Shantung Province. This was closely followed by a demand on the part of Russia for the lease of the Liao-tung Peninsula, in which are located the ports of Port Arthur and Dairen, along with the demand for the right of building a railway to be guarded by Russian soldiers and to traverse the Manchurian Province from Port Arthur and Dairen to join the Transsiberian Railway at Vladivostok. The Russo-Japanese War resulted in 1905 in the transfer of those territories to Japan with the consent of China. History of Losses Reviewed Following the lease of Kiao-chau Bay to Germany and that of Port Arthur and Darein to Russia, France obtained from China the lease of Kwang-chouwan on the coast of Kwang-tung Province for ninety-nine years, and Great Britain the lease, also for ninety-nine years, of an extension of Kowloon and the adjoining territory and waters close to Hongkong. The lease was for “so long a period as Port Arthur should remain in the occupation of Russia”. Great Britain also leased the port of Weihaiwei in the same year. Both Great Britain and France based their claim for the leases on the ground of “preserving the balance of power in the Far East”. Presenting China's case that her territorial integrity cannot be preserved by the existence of these leases, Dr. Alfred Sze declared that the European powers had established a virtual “imperium in imperio”, or an empire within an empire, in China. Conflicts between foreign powers with which China stands on friendly terms, were likely to result from the leaseholds, Mr. Sze said, and he asked the surrender of the leases “to remove discernible sources of controversy in the Far East”. Speaking for France, M. Viviani said: “The French delegation stated that the government of the Republic is ready to join in the collective restitution of territories leased to various powers in China, it being understood that the conditions and the limits of the restitution shall be determined by agreement between the Chinese government and each of the governments concerned”. Britain to Keep Kowloon Great Britain. Mr. Balfour said, would enter such an agreement and would give up Weihaiwei, but did not think it expedient to surrender Kowloon, a base which is used to protect Hongkong. “The safeguarding of Hong Kong”, said Mr. Balfour. "is not merely a British interest, but one in which the whole world is concerned”. Mr. Balfour described Hong Kong as first among the ports of the world, not excepting Hamburg, Antwerp or New York. Mr. Balfour then referred to Weihaiwei. The acquisition by Great Britain of this lease had been part of the general movement for obtaining leased territories in 1898, in which Russia, Germany and France, as well as Great Britain, had been concerned, he said. The motive which had animated the Germans in acquiring Kiao-chau had been largely to secure economic domination. The motive of the British government in acquiring the lease of Weihaiwei had been connected with resistance to the economic domination' of China by other powers. It had been based on a desire for the maintenance of the balance of power in the Far East, with a view to the maintenance of the policy of the open door, and has been intended as a check to the predatory action of Germany and Russia, Mr. Balfour contended. Commercial Designs Denied As showing that Great Britain had no commercial designs in acquiring Weihaiwei, Mr. Balfour declared that England announced in 1898 that she will not construct any -railroad communication from Weihaiwei and the district leased therewith into the territory of the province of Shantung. Expressing the British government's attitude toward China's demand, Mr. Balfour said he would acquiesce in the view of M. Viviani. “The British government is perfectly willing to return Weihaiwei to China as part of a general arrangement intended to confirm the sovereignty of China and to give effect to the principle of the 'open door”, he said. The surrender, however, Mr. Balfour added, must be undertaken as part of a general arrangement. He said he spoke with the authority of his government when he pledged that on these conditions Weihaiwei would be given up with a view of assisting in the settlement of the Shantung controversy. In pledging Japan to restore Kiao-chau to China, Mr. Hanihara said the question probably would be settled in the Shantung negotiations. “We are prepared to come to an agreement with China on this basis”, he said. “There are now going on conversations between Japan and China through the good offices of Mr. Hughes and Mr. Balfour, the result of which, it is hoped, will be a happy solution of the problem. Therefore, the question of the leased territory of Kiao-chau is one which properly calls for separate treatment” – By Thomas Steep – The New York Herald (New York, USA), Sunday 4th December 1921, page 1 & 3 ARMS CONFERENCE FRIEND TO LEAGUE, NOT RIVAL, SAYS SIR ERIC DRUMMOND Rome, Dec. 3 – Sir Eric Drummond DRUMMOND, James Eric, Sir (1876 – 1951). British politician and diplomat who was the first Secretary-General of the League of Nations (1920–1933). He later became British ambassador to Rome (1933–1939) and then the chief adviser on foreign publicity in the Ministry of Information (1939–1940). In 1946, he became deputy leader of the Liberal Party in the House of Lords. He was part of an international technocratic elite of experts that favoured the initiation of international standards in health and labour issues, the gathering and the sharing of statistical information and a spirit of internationalism to deal with problems., secretary general of the League of Nations, addressing the Press Club to-day, declared the League of Nations was still in existence and that its usefulness had been proved by the solutions of the Albanian, Silesian, Lithuanian and Aland Islands questions. Alluding to the Washington conference, the secretary said: “I know too little of what has been done at the Washington Conference to express any definite opinion, but it is clear the conference cannot and must not be regarded by the league's supporters as a rival. It is a friend to whom we wish all success, since all the work done in the cause of peace or for the reduction of armaments is done in the spirit of the League”. Sir Eric appeared before the club after he had concluded conferences with various ministers relative to the league's work – The New York Herald (New York, USA), Sunday 4th December 1921, page 1 GERMANY WILL ASK ALLIES FOR A MORATORIUM Paris, Dec. 3 – The Inter-Allied Reparations Commission probably will begin formal consideration of the proposal for a moratorium on Germany's foreign debts at the meeting of the commission to be held next Tuesday, by which time it is expected that a formal request from the German government for a reparations holiday will have been received. Unofficial dispatches received in reparation commission circles today announced that the Wirth government in Germany had decided to ask a moratorium, and would forward the request, together with the reasons for it, immediately. The French Foreign Office, is was said today, is still without any official indication from the British government as to the nature or extent of the negotiations that have been going on in London with Dr. Walther Rathenau, the former German Minister of Reconstruction. The Council of Ministers, with Premier Briand attending, held a meeting this morning, at which the subject of the moratorium is said to have been discussed at length. Allied Approval Necessary In reparation commission quarters it was explained that the request for a moratorium probably would not be acted upon for some time, as the question was of such vital importance it must first he passed upon by the Allied governments. Germany’s latest plan for meeting her reparations obligations to the Allies includes the formation of a consortium for economic exploitation in Russia, to be participated in by Germany, France, England and the United States, according to an article published today by the "Journal des Debats," The newspaper, although not divulging the source of its information, declares this is the plan on which Hugo Stinnes STINNES, Hugo (1870 – 1924). German industrialist and politician. He was a director of many of the largest industrial and mining companies of Westphalia, the Rhineland and Luxembourg. When World War I broke out, he secured an enormous share in the war profits which enlarged his fortunes of the great industrialists. His connexion with Ludendorff led to his becoming an influence behind the scenes in German politics. In June 1920 he was elected to the Reichstag. He acted as spokesman for German industry towards trade unions and laid the foundation of today's system of cooperation between the unions and employers in Germany. He used his influence in the press to attack the Versailles Treaty. He died in Berlin as a result of a gall bladder operation. His financial empire collapsed within a year of his death. Parts of his empire continued as Stinnes AG (now DB Mobility Logistics) and RWE, the second-largest energy supplier in Germany., the German industrial magnate, and former German Minister of Reconstruction Rathenau have been negotiating for the last few days in London. Provisions of German Plan As outlined by the "Journal des Debats," the plan includes the following general stipulations: “The United States, England and France would supply Germany with capital necessary to transport raw materials sufficient to assure a German monopoly in supplying Russia' with manufactured products. The Russian industries would be restricted to the production of raw materials sufficient to repay Germany for the manufactured products transported into Russia. The profits thus realized from Germany's exploitation in Russia would be divided among the members of the consortium in such a way as to insure the payment of Germany's war reparations. Meanwhile Germany would be allowed to benefit by a moratorium, permitting a test of the above plan to be made” – Associated Press – The New York Herald (New York, USA), Sunday 4th December 1921, page 3 [EGYPTIAN] NEGOTIATION WITH BRITAIN London, December 3 – Highly important papers respecting the negotiations with the Egyptian delegation, which are published, include, firstly, a memorandum of the proposals for a treaty; secondly, Adly Pasha's letter rejecting the proposals; thirdly, a communication handed in today by the High Commissioner of Egypt to the Sultan giving a comprehensive review of the negotiations and the British Government's observations on its past, present, and Future relations with Egypt. The British Government's communication points out mat the one dominant factor which has governed the Association of Britain and Egypt, for 40 years must always govern it, namely, the close coincidence between Britain's interests in Egypt arid the interests of Egypt herself. The whole territory of Egypt is essential to the main line of communication between Britain and her Dominions in the East. Egypt's fortunes are inseparable from the security of the Suez Canal zone, and the immunity of Egypt from the dominant influence of any other Great Power was of primary importance to India, Australia, New Zealand, and the Eastern Colonies and Dependencies. It affected the welfare and safety of nearly 350.000,000 of British subjects. Egypt's prosperity was important to them, not merely because Britain and Egypt were each other's best costumers. but because, any serious danger to the financial or commercial interests of Egypt invited the intervention by other Powers, and threatened her independence. There is no shadow of any exploitation of Egypt's rapid development. Britain did not seek financial gain or commercial privileges – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Monday 5th December 1921, page 1 GERMAN MARK Berlin, December 3 – The far-reaching social consequences of "Black Thursday" are being realised. Reports from Leipzig, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and elsewhere indicate the wholesale smifting-out of the mushroom banks which were founded to satisfy the public's speculation. Scores of new millionaires have been ruined, and the life earnings of many small investors have disappeared in a night – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Monday 5th December 1921, page 2 PETROGRAD London, December 2 – The Daily Chronicle's special correspondent at Petrograd states: "This is it dying city. It outwardly retains its magnificent buildings and wide streets, but the buildings which swarmed with courtiers are now empty. Il is a sad setting to it tragic farce. The facades of the buildings are adorned with gigantic portraits of Lenin, Trotsky, and Karl Marx, but the population essentially is bourgeois. They live by what they call speculation. Someone buys a pair of hoots from another who has two pairs. The seller goes to someone who has two coats, and replenishes his wardrobe with the money obtained for the boots, and so the exchange goes on. “The original capital to start speculation was probably saved from the wreckage of four years ago, or is the result of illicit dealings in eggs, butter and other property of the peasants. The people of Petrograd are really living by faking in each other's washing” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Monday 5th December 1921, page 2 GERMAN REPARATIONS Paris, December 3 – The Petit Parisian states that the German Government has decided formally to demand a moratorium. The demand will be made immediately if the international loan which Germany needs for the January payment is refused. Should the loan be granted, the demand will be made at the end of January – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Monday 5th December 1921, page 2 JAPAN AGREES Tokyo, December 3 – It is understood on good authority that the Government has cabled to Baron Kato to accept Judge Hughes's naval ratio. Japan is willing to make the sacrifices involved for the sake of peace in the Pacific. The Government has instructed Baron Kato to try and secure an American agreement for the reduction of fortifications in Hawaii and the Philippines. The announcement of the Japanese naval formations today mentions no admiral for the second squadron, which will be eliminated as Japan's first step towards naval limitations. The press accepts the situation gladly, pointing out that 200,000,000 yen saved on the navy cat: he better spent in other directions – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Monday 5th December 1921, page 2 WASHINGTON CONFERENCE Washington, December 2 – Optimistic feelings as to the result of the conference are confirmed after talks with all the British delegates, including the oversea representatives There is a feeling that Japan is holding off definite acquiescence in the naval ratio until the position in the Far East is clearer. Both Britain and America sympathise'. Certainly neither seems anxious to finalise the matter. Mr Balfour goes to New York tomorrow, so there is nothing likely to be done until the middle of next week. The fact of his departure is evidence that be anticipates no untoward developments. Japanese quarters admitted the desire of securing the source of food supply and raw material in China protected definitely, meaning recognition of special interests in Manchuria and elsewhere. It is possible that Japanese tactics may involve, at first, rejection of Mr Hughes’s plan, followed by acceptance after further parley. The optimistic note struck by the British delegation was reflected today in both administrative and presidential circles in the United States. At the White House the feeling we 9 that things were going almost too well, considering the magnitude of the matters under discussion. President Harding offered warm compliments to the Press on the way in which they wore dealing with the conference. He said that nothing else was the outcome the Press had succeeded in establishing a state, of mind throughout the land which was| the finest reflex of the feelings. of the republic and would have a profound effect on the peace of the world. Replying to a rumour that Britain was mediating between Japan and the United States, the highest official quarters scouted the idea. They said that far from arriving at a time for mediation the Big Three are discussing topics arising from the reports of experts. While it was inaccurate to say that the Big Three actually had met at a round-table it is undoubted that conversations are on between Mr Balfour and Admiral Kato TOMOSABURŌ, Kato, viscount Kato (1862 – 1923). Imperial Japanese Navy officer, cabinet minister, and Prime Minister of Japan from 1922 to 1923. He served as chief of staff to Admiral Tōgō Heihachirō on the battleship Mikasa, assisting in Japan's victory at the Battle of Tsushima (1905). He became Vice Minister of the Navy in 1906, and was promoted to vice admiral on 28 August 1908. In 1909, he was appointed commander of the Kure Naval District, and in 1913 became Commander in Chief of the Combined Fleet. He became Minister of the Navy in August 1915, days before his promotion to full admiral. He served in this post in the cabinets of Ōkuma Shigenobu, Terauchi Masatake, Hara Takashi, and Takahashi Korekiyo. Under Hara and Takahashi, Katō was Japan's chief commissioner plenipotentiary to the Washington Naval Conference, and worked with Ambassador Shidehara Kijurō in the negotiations that led to the Five-Power Treaty. Following his return to Japan, Katō was appointed 21st Prime Minister of Japan in recognition of his performance at the Washington Naval Conference., which today or tomorrow may resolve into meeting together. It is understood that, while the larger questions of land armaments have not been discussed by the conference, some phases may be tabled before the conclusion. The matter of inviting other nations to share in the deliberations will be left to the conference. A rumour is current that Mr Hughes HUGHES, Charles Evans (1862 – 1948). American statesman, Republican Party politician, and the 11th Chief Justice of the United States. He was also the 36th Governor of New York, the Republican nominee in the 1916 presidential election, and the 44th United States Secretary of State. After Warren G. Harding won the 1920 presidential election, Hughes accepted Harding's invitation to serve as Secretary of State. Serving under Harding and Calvin Coolidge, he negotiated the Washington Naval Treaty, which was designed to prevent a naval arms race among the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan. Hughes left office in 1925 and returned to private practice, becoming one of the most prominent attorneys in the country. In 1930, President Herbert Hoover appointed him to succeed Chief Justice Taft. intends throwing another bombshell in the conference regarding Siberia, intending to ask the Powers to respect territorial and administrative integrity. In this connection an announcement was made to-day that the administration intends recommending the expenditure of several millions in Russian relief. It was officially announced tonight that Mr Balfour, Mr Hughes and Admiral Kato met this afternoon and had an extended interview on the naval proposals, but no comment can be made. It is understood that Japan offered as a basis of discussion on Shantung the proposal of September last, that the railway line be operated under the joint control of the Chinese and Japanese. It is unofficially stated that the Japanese recognised that some measure of tariff reform is necessary, but it has not yet been found possible to suggest a considered scheme, in view of the great amount of their trade. It is rumoured that for reasons of domestic policy Japan would herself propose the abrogation of the Anglo – Japanese alliance in favour of some agreement with other nations covering the Far Eastern and Pacific questions, France being mentioned in addition to the United States and Britain. Japanese newspaper circles assert definitely that such an agreement is being formulated, declaring that representatives of the four Powers are meeting now, comprising Sir Maurice Han key for Britain, Mr Fletcher for the United States, M. Pousant for France and M. Saburi for Japan. There possibly will be some delay in announcing the agreement on naval ratio until Far Eastern matters have advanced to such a stage as would give Japan an assurance regarding her position in the Far East. It is known that Admiral Kato sent an important dispatch to Tokyo to-night. It is said that the great progress made regarding' a naval agreement is due to the efforts of Mr Balfour to convince Japan that acquiescence- is the right thing to do – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Star (Christchurch, NZ), Monday 5th December 1921, page 2 FAR EAST NEGOTIATIONS Washington, December 4th – The Australian Press Association learns that the agreement on Far Eastern affairs will take the form of a definite treaty between Britain, the United States, and Japan, consisting of four main provisions: Guaranteeing the integrity of China; Agreeing to confer on all matters affecting peace and tranquillity in the Far East; Undertaking to protect jointly the islands of the Pacific should they be attacked by any Power; Abrogating the special agreement known as the Anglo-Japanese Alliance. The first provision embodies practically the root principles, and covers all general matters except Shantung. Regarding that, if China and Japan fail to come to an agreement in the present conversations, a Commission will be appointed to report on the whole question at a future date. The second provision arranges for future action, which will have the effect of not allowing any exploitation in the Far East. The third provision obviates the necessity for any of the Powers further fortifying the Pacific, bases, while the fourth removes the greatest source of irritation between Britain and the United States. It is believed that President Harding has given his consent to the treaty, which is now on the way to London and Tokyo for confirmation. Senators Lodge CABOT LODGE, Henry (1850 – 1924). American Republican politician, historian, and statesman. He served in the United States Senate from 1893 to 1924 and is best known for his positions on foreign policy. His successful crusade against Woodrow Wilson's Treaty of Versailles ensured that the United States never joined the League of Nations. He sponsored the unsuccessful Lodge Bill of 1890, which sought to protect the voting rights of African Americans and introduce a national secret ballot (1890). He also supported immigration restrictions, becoming a member of the Immigration Restriction League and influencing the Immigration Act of 1917. and Underwood, representatives of the two Senate parties, believe that it will be accepted, and the opposition of the irreconcilables, such as Senators Borah and Johnston, being offset by the adherence of the Democrats. In its present form the treaty leaves out France, but it is understood that room is left for that nation’s adherence should she so desire. The Naval Ratio Another treaty will embody the naval agreement on the “5, 5,3” ratio, though possibly this may be modified in favour of one instrument covering the whole range of agreements. It is not thought likely that Britain will gain her point respecting submarines. Probably Mr Balfour will make a formal protest ah the next plenary session, recording the British view and giving notice that Britain will build to the utmost limit in chasers and submarine defences generally, and, moreover, that she will regard submarines as pirates in the event of another naval war, This will place the onus of counting submarines as a naval weapon on the United States, which finds itself in a very delicate position – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Tuesday 6th December 1921, page 4 THE SUBMARINE QUESTION Washington, December 5 – The Navy Department stands solidly against the abolition of the submarine as a naval weapon, hut on the oilier hand there is a strong body of public opinion in the country which is totally opposed to the submarine. As Mr Balfour said the other day, the British view may not succeed, but it will be sure to meet with a great deal of sympathy – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Tuesday 6th December 1921, page 4 DAIL EIREAAN London, December 5 – Cabinet was summoned to meet at noon to-day, indicating that the Irish question has passed temporarily from the hands of the Governments peace representatives. A further meeting has not been arranged with the Sinn Feiners, who will remain in the meantime in London. What is going to be done must be done today, in view of Mr Lloyd George’s pledge to Sir James Craig that the negotiations would end definitely to-day. If the worst comes a fortnight remains under the terms of the truce to devise a way to prevent a reversion to war. According to the Dublin correspondent of the Daily Telegraph, the Dail Firearm spent less time considering Mr Lloyd George’s offer than in discussing the possibility of continuing the truce if the conference fails to agree. The Sinn Fein is not yielding on the question of allegiance, but is continuing its demand for an independent republic. It is also not likely to agree as a condition of the truce that it should return to the state of things prevailing before a republic was proclaimed. On the other hand, if the Government accepts the present situation as a basis of a scheme for preserving peace, acceptance will undoubtedly be claimed of recognition as a republic. If peace is preserved, despite the failure of the conference, there certainly will not be the same terms as during the truce. If it is impossible to agree to a plan for postponing hostilities until the prospect of a settlement is brighter, the position indeed will be exceedingly grave. If peace is preserved, despite the failure of the conference, there certainly will not be the same terms as during the truce. If it is impossible to agree to a plan for postponing hostilities until the prospect of a settlement is brighter, the position indeed will be exceedingly grave – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Tuesday 6th December 1921, page 4 [GERMANY’S] MORATORIUM QUESTION Paris, December 5 – M. Gustave Herve HERVE Gustave (1871 – 1944). French politician. In 1901 He attained notoriety with an apparent image of the tricolour planted in a dungpile. Soon he forged a prominent antimilitarist movement called Hervéism. When France's socialist parties united in 1905, he led the most extreme faction. Before World War I he was one of the most strident voices within both French socialism and the Second International, advocating violent, revolutionary means to prevent war. Despite his dedication, he grew frustrated due to continuing leftist divisions. His disillusionment was connected to a rather naive reading of the increasingly anachronistic revolutionary tradition. In 1919, he and several prominent socialists created a national socialist party. Startling as his reversal may appear at first glance, his activist Insurrectional Socialism actually included an antimaterialistic critique of society. That critique was crucial to his evolving national socialism which looked to the nation and its religious traditions to remedy social divisions and decadence. When Benito Mussolini took power in Italy in the March on Rome, Hervé heralded him as "my courageous Italian comrade." Later in 1936, Hervé rallied behind French war hero Marshal Philippe Pétain, but distanced himself from him in 1940. He died in 1944, and was actually harassed during the war years by Vichy France officials for his criticism published in La Victoire., writing in the Victoire, suggests the conditions on which Germany should be granted a moratorium., including one by which Britain and the United States should undertake to lend Franco and Belgium the amount of cash due from Germany which those countries cannot do without. Other conditions would be the cessation of paper money issues, Entente representatives to be appointed controllers of the Reichsbank; Germany within a year to vote new taxation to balance the Budget; the moratorium to have reference to cash payments and not to affect the Wiesbaden agreement – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Tuesday 6th December 1921, page 4 EGYPTIAN CRISIS London, December 5 – The Times, in an editorial referring to Egypt, says that the draft of the treaty proposes to make Egypt a sovereign State under a constitutional monarchy, without complete independence or oven that veiled independence which apes the independence of some parts of Western Europe. The Times’ condemns the War Office tor insisting on the maintenance of troops in the interior, whereas the demand for security would be met by stationing a force in the canal zone. What is gained in security under the proposals is lost by making independence invisible. A spirit of healthy self-government can hardly grow in such a close atmosphere. The Times adds: “Adly Pasha decidedly weakens his case by claiming sovereignly for the Sudan, which certainly was not conquered or reduced to order by the modern Egyptians. Great Britain withdrew other Powers would step in. The abolition of martial law, the passing of an Indemnity Act and the substitution of Egyptians for foreign officials should mitigate the disappointment and stimulate a resumption of the negotiations go unfortunately interrupted” – Times – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Tuesday 6th December 1921, page 4 IRISH CONFERENCE London, December 6th – A member of the Cabinet informed a Pressman that an agreement had been reached, the terms of which would be communicated today. The conference agreed regarding a new allegiance formula. The Government has already submitted to Sir James Craig the text of the agreement, which provides for mutual concessions. The Sinn Feiners are confident that the terms will be acceptable to the South. Mr Lloyd George does not anticipate any difficulty with regard to Ulster, whoso rights are fully safeguarded – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 7th December 1921, page 4 GERMANY’S REPARATIONS QUESTION London, December 6 – Sir Robert Horne, speaking at Manchester, pointed out that Great Britain never included in its Budget any reparations receipts. Germany was now seeking to delay her payment. The Allies must settle that point unitedly, realising that a collapsed Germany would be a misfortune for the world – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 7th December 1921, page 4 ARMS CONFERENCE Washington, December 5 –Admiral Kato, wearing the full uniform of an admiral, made a special statement to the Press today, saying: “The question of the limitation of armaments involves issues which will have a far-reaching effect on the national and international life of Japan, and on the policies of the Great Powers for decades, and possibly permanently. These issues should be brought to the full knowledge and consideration of the Japanese Government before definite action is taken. Unfortunately, there is a serious delay in the cables- Naturally I am in consultation with Tokyo, but matters cannot be completed in too short a time”. Admiral Kato said he was firmly convinced that the conference would be able to agree on plans for an adjustment which would be fair to all parties, and which would incalculably benefit the nations concerned and the whole of the world. No effort was being spared by him or his colleagues to bring the various questions to the earliest possible conclusion consistent with wisdom and foresight. He denied that Japan was playing a bargaining game. He was sure that no one at the conference thought so. “It is contrary to fact”, he said. He regretted that such unworthy motives wore linked in the popular mind with the honest endeavours for the betterment of mankind. Committee work proceeding The fact that the question of the form which the agreements will take is now exercising the commentators indicates how much progress has been made towards finality in the major problems. Despite the apparent standstill which the conference has reached, much is going on behind the doors in the committees’ informal discussions. It is likely that the announcements when made will come in a rush. The position of China European delegations are coming to the conclusion that China is not likely to win complete economic territorial freedom at this conference. The view taken is that the country is now in a state of violent transition, and cannot hope to achieve all its aims until it is able to show the world its power to administer its own affairs without detriment to foreign interests. It is understood that the Chinese delegation is feeling disappointed at the results they have achieved so far, though they profess publicly their satisfaction – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 7th December 1921, page 7 WORLD RESTAURATION Washington, December 6 – President Harding in his message to Congress said: “It is a very gratifying privilege to come to Congress with the Republic at peace with all. nations of the world. It is equally gratifying to report that our country is not only free from every impending menace of war, but there are growing assurances of the permanency of peace, which we so deeply cherish. For approximately ten years we have dwelt amid menaces of war. or as participants in war’s actualities. The inevitable aftermath with its disordered conditions has added to the difficulties of the Government. Our tasks would have been less difficult if we had only ourselves to consider. but so much of the world is involved that no permanent readjustment can be effected without consideration of our inescapable relationship to world affairs in finance and trade”. Turning to the industrial situation, the President said that the right of Labour to organise was just as essential as the right of Capital to organise, labour, however, must be guided by regulations, just as corporations must answer to the law when the public welfare is concerned. It should be possible to set up judicial, or quasi – judicial tribunals for consideration fend determination of all disputes which are a menace to the public welfare. President Harding added that unemployment had grown encouragingly less. Recommending the appropriation to supply the American Russian Belief Commission with ten million bushels of corn and a million bushels of seed grain, the President said: “We do not recognise the Russian Government or tolerate propaganda emanating there from, but we do not forget the traditions of Russian friendship” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Star (Christchurch), Thursday 8th December 1921, page 2 THE TREATY London, December 6 – The agreement is entitled “A Treaty between Great Britain and Ireland”, signed on December 6. Article I – Ireland shall have the same constitutional status in the comity of nations known as the British Empire, as Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, with a Parliament having powers to make laws for the peace, order and good government of Ireland and an executive responsible to that Parliament, and shall be styled the Irish Free State. Article II – Subject to provisions hereinafter stated the position of the Irish State in relation to the Imperial Parliament shall be that of Canada. Article III – A representative of the Crown in Ireland shall be appointed in like manner to the Governor-General of Canada. Article IV – Contains the text of the oath of allegiance Article V –The Irish Free State shall assume liability for public debt to the United Kingdom to the present date, and payment of war pensions in such proportion as may be fair and equitable the amount being determined, in default of agreement, by arbitration of independent citizens of the Empire. Article VI –Until an agreement is made between the British and Irish Governments, whereby the Free State undertakes its own coastal defence, the sea defence of Britain and Ireland shall be undertaken by his Majesty’s Imperial forces. This does not prevent Ireland maintaining vessels necessary for the protection of the revenue and fisheries. This article to be reviewed five years hence, with a view t-o Ireland undertaking a share of her own coastal defence. Article VII – The Irish Government shall afford his Majesty's Imperial forces in time of peace harbour and other facilities, and in time of rar or strained relations with a foreign Power such harbour and other facilities as Britain may require for the purposes of defence. Article VIII – With a. view to securing observance of the principle of international limitation of armaments. it the Irish Government establishes a, military defence force the establishments thereof shall not exceed such proportion of the British establishments as that which the population of Ireland bears to the population of Britain. Article IX – The ports of Britain and the Irish Free State shall be freely open to the ships of either country on payment of the customary port and other dues. Article X.—The Irish Government agrees to pay fair compensation, not less favourable than the Act of 1920, to judges, officials, police and other public servants discharged or retiring in consequence of the change of Government. This agreement does not apply to members of the auxiliary police force, or persons recruited in Britain for the Irish constabulary during the two years. The British Government assumes responsibility for such compensation. Article XI – Until the expiration of a month from the passing of an Act of Parliament ratifying the treaty, the power of the Irish Free State shall not be exercisable in respect to Northern Ireland, and the i provisions of the 1920 Act relating to Northern Ireland shall remain in full force. No election shall be held for the return or members to serve in the Parliament of the Free State for the constituencies of Northern Ireland unless both Houses of Northern Ireland pass a resolution in favour of holding such elections before the end of the said month. Article XII – If before the expiration of the said month both Houses of the Northern Parliament present an address to his Majesty, the powers of the Parliament and Government of the Free State shall no longer extend to Northern Ireland. and the provisions of the Act of 1920, including those relating to the Council of Ireland shall, so far as they relate to Northern Ireland, continue in full force; provided if such address be presented, a commission of three people, one appointed by the Free State, another by Northern Ireland. and a third, the chairman, appointed by the British Government, shall determine in accordance with the wishes of the inhabitants, so far as they may be compatible with economic and geographic conditions, the boundaries between Northern and the rest of Ireland. Such boundary applies to purposes of the 1920 Act, as well as this instrument. Article XIII – For the purposes of the foregoing article the powers of the Parliament of Southern Ireland under the Act of 1920 to elect members of the Council of Ireland shall be exercised by the Parliament of the Free State. Article XIV – If no address is presented in a month, the Parliament and Government of Northern Ireland shall continue to exercise the powers conferred by the 1920 Act, but the Parliament and Government of the Free State shall in Northern Ireland have in relation to matters in respect whereof the Parliament of Northern Ireland has not power to make laws, the same powers as in the rest of Ireland, including matters which under the 1920 Act are within the jurisdiction of the Council of Ireland. Article XV – Any time hereafter the Government of Northern Ireland and the provisional Government of Southern Ireland, hereinafter constituted, may meet for the purposes o? discussing provisions, including the following: Safeguards regarding patronage in Northern Ireland. Safeguards regarding revenue of Northern Ireland. Safeguards regarding import and export duties affecting the trade and industry of Northern Ireland. Safeguards for minorities in Northern Ireland. Settlement of financial relations between Northern Ireland and Free State. Establishment of powers of local militia in Northern Ireland and the relation of the defence- forces of the Free State and Northern Ireland respectively. If any such meeting provisions are agreed, on they shall have effect as if included among the provisions set out in Article XIV. Article XVI – Neither the Parliament of the Free State nor Northern Ireland shall make any law directly or indirectly endowing any religion, or prohibition restricting the free exercise thereof, or give any preference or impose any disability on account of religious belief or religious status, or affect prejudicially the right, of any child to attend a school receiving public money without attending religious instruction at the school. The Parliaments shall not make any discrimination respecting State aid between schools under the management of different religious denominations, or divert from any religious denomination or educational institution any of its property, except for public utility purposes and after payment of compensation. Article XVII – As provisional arrangement for the administration of Southern Ireland during the interval between the present time and the constitution of Parliamentary Government of the Free State steps shall be taken forthwith to summon a meeting of members of Parliament elected for the constituencies of Southern Ireland since the 1920 Act, and constituting a provisional Government. The British Government shall take the steps necessary to transfer to such provisional Government the powers and machinery requisite for the discharge of its duties, provided every member of the provisional Government shall signify* in writing his or her acceptance of this instrument. This arrangement shall not continue in force longer than a year. Article XVIII – This instrument shall be submitted, forthwith for approval by the British Parliament and by Irish signatory to a meeting of members elected to sit in the House of Commons of Southern Ireland, and if approved shall be ratified by the necessary legislation. The treaty is signed by Mr Lloyd George, Lord Birkenhead, Mr Churchill, Sir L. Worthington Evans, Sir Hamar Greenwood, Sir Gordon Hewart Mr Arthur Griffith, Mr Michael Collins, Mr It. C. Barton and Mr Gavin – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Star (Christchurch), Thursday 8th December 1921, page 2 SOVIET AND FINLAND Helsingfors, December 6 – M. Chicherin CHICHERIN, Georgy (1872 -1936). Russian Marxist revolutionary and a Soviet politician who served as the first People's Commissar for Foreign Affairs in the Soviet government from March 1918 to July 1930. A distant relative of Aleksandr Pushkin, Georgy Chicherin was born into an old noble family. He was born on the estate of his uncle, Boris Chicherin, in Karaul, Tambov. In 1904, Chicherin inherited the estate of his famous uncle in the Tambov region and became very wealthy. He immediately used his new fortune to support revolutionary activities in the runup to the Russian Revolution of 1905 and was forced to flee abroad to avoid arrest lat in that year. He spent the next 13 years in London, Paris and Berlin, where he joined the Menshevik faction of the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party and was active in emigre politics. With the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, Chicherin adopted an antiwar position, which brought him closer to Vladimir Lenin's Bolsheviks. In 1915 he moved to Britain, where he soon developed a friendship with Mary Bridges-Adams, an activist with the Plebs League and founding member of the Central Labour College. In 1917, he was arrested by the British government for his antiwar writings, and he spent a few months in Brixton Prison. Upon his return to Russia in early 1918, Chicherin formally joined the Bolsheviks and was appointed as Trotsky's deputy during the negotiations that led to the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk. I n 1922, Chicherin participated in the Genoa Conference and signed the Treaty of Rapallo with Germany. He begged Lenin to avoid wrecking the Genoa Conference since he believed that would make it easier to get foreign loans. When Joseph Stalin replaced Lenin in 1924, he continued to be the foreign minister, and Stalin valued Chicherin's opinions. In 1930 Chicherin was formally replaced by his deputy, Maxim Litvinov. A continuing terminal illness burdened his last years, which forced him away from his circle of friends and active work and led to an early death in 1936 (Soviet Foreign Commissary) has sent an ultimatum to the Finnish Minister in Moscow protesting against the Finnish Government dispatching a Note to the League of Nations urging settlement of the Karelian dispute. The Soviet demands that Finland shall close her frontier to Karelia and also take other measures. The Soviet threatens to resort to force in the event of a refusal to obey its requests – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Star (Christchurch), Thursday 8th December 1921, page 7 PEACE IN IRELAND London, December 6 – The Belfast correspondent of The Times says: “The Ulster Cabinet was favourably surprised by the now scheme. If it can be satisfied of the goodwill of the Southern Government and that the latter intends to rule equitably and treat Northern Ireland as one part of the British dominions treats another, there is distinct hope of unity in Ireland being brought within reach and realisation”. The Dublin correspondent says: “The news was received quietly. Excitement was suppressed until the terms became known and Ulster’s verdict given. There is profound gratitude and relief everywhere”. The Times, in a leader, says: “The triumphant end to the conference constitutes one of the greatest achievements in Imperial history. Tt should end the secular feud of the British and Irish peoples for ever more”. The Times unhesitatingly pays a tribute to the qualifies of statesmanship displayed by the Government when it was once aroused to the significance of the Irish problem at Home and abroad, and says: “Sinn Fein’s generosity should greatly facilitate an agreement with Ulster. Coercion is now out of the question. The whole problem of Ireland had now been reduced to manageable proportions. Ulster received the fullest and most generous consideration and Southern Unionists are believed to be satisfied with the provisions that Sinn Fein are prepared to make in their interests. Sinn Fein extremists may be dissatisfied, but the Irish people as a whole must endorse the wisdom of the agreement. Britain has gone to lengths of generosity greater than her sternest critics ever demanded. The peace terms are a fitting close to an age of wrongs and injustice and the beginning of a new era of happiness and mutual understanding”. The Daily Mail says: “This plan for an Irish settlement establishes clearly before the world the British love of liberty and desire to extend it- widely. Ireland is at peace within the Empire. This is a consummation long and devoutly wished. It will have a far-reaching effect and will pronouncedly enhance the moral status of England all over the world” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Star (Christchurch), Thursday 8th December 1921, page 7 PACIFIC AND NAVAL TREATIES Washington, November 6 – Most newspapers today discuss the announcement that the Pacific and naval agreements may be reduced to treaty form by a sub-committee. In the Senate the question of the attitude which that body may assume becomes of paramount importance. Senator Borah, who claims that he forced the naval limitation programme of the Administration, indicates that he will support a treaty based on naval agreements, and also a Far Eastern treaty, if it rests on public opinion, but will resist it if it suggests explicitly or by implication the use of force. Senator Borah expresses the opinion that the Anglo-Japanese treaty is none of the United States’ business. He sees no harm in the leading Powers considering a- plan for permitting China to negotiate treaties directly with each nation, claiming that special privileges in any general treaty would naturally include Britain and Japan, whose interest in the Orient was the greatest of any Powers – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Star (Christchurch), Thursday 8th December 1921, page 7 ARMS CONFERENCE Washington, December 7 – President Harding, addressing the Red Cross Society, said: “It would be a wonderful thing for you and me to have lived in a period in which wo brought the conscience of mankind into an understanding where wo have something tangible to prevent calling upon you again for war service, and I would like to say it to you because I know what I am speaking about. “We are going to succeed beyond our fondest hopes. It is getting to be so pleasing to be able to say that wo can do it now. There is nothing impossible when the conscience of the present-day civilisation has fixed that accomplishment. I know whereof I speak. We are to succeed beyond our fondest hopes” – Press Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 9th December 1921, page 4 December 8 – This is the first unqualified declaration regarding the success of the conference coming from any high American source. It is thought to be inspired by the favourable news coming from Tokyo. The declaration was followed almost immediately by a conference with Mr Hughes. It is blown that the telegraphs and cables have been very busy with official business to-night, and it would not be surprising if it is learned that the Japanese Government has acquiesced in the terms of the naval agreement. Already there is every indication, based on the closest canvass of the situation, and despite official reticence that a definite understanding has been reached between Great Britain, the United States, and Japan, which will take the form of a treaty in regard to naval matters, and perhaps also Far Eastern affairs. American circles maintain silence as to the exact form of the agreement. It is more than likely that France will be included in thesis treaties or agreements. American opinion seems to be crystallising in that direction, inasmuch as a tripartite arrangement would range two old friends (Britain and Japan) against the United States, whereas Franco would be expected to side with the latter in the event of differences of opinion. It is hinted that Japan objects to France’s inclusion, because of “too many cooks” also because Francs might import the quarrels of Europe into Asia – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 9th December 1921, page 4 THE PACIFIC Washington, December 7 – Referring to the question of the arrangement of Pacific affairs, the British spokesman today indicated that three or four Powers involved would most likely make some arrangement by which mutual discussion would be possible with a view to avoiding difficulties. This confirms the statement cabled regarding the provisions of the treaty which will be made between Britain, the United States, and Japan, about which there is still considerable surmise. The indications today are that the fortifications of the Pacific are regarded from the viewpoint of the geographical position, Hawaii and Guam being obviously in different categories, go far as the Pacific is concerned, China will not be included with the signatories, though possibly reference to her position will be made in the treaty arrangements – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 9th December 1921, page 4 PACIFIC AND NAVAL PROPOSALS Washington, December 8 – Semi-official confirmation of the details which have been cabled during the last few clays were obtainable to-day. The British spokesman indicated that the Japanese Government approved of the Pacific proposals, including some form of substitution for the Anglo-Japanese Alliance, but the naval ratio is not finally decided, though there is every indication of a favourable decision. The proposals to be submitted to Japan will be divided under three heads: First, the Anglo-Japanese Alliance and Pacific problems; second, the naval ratio: third, naval bases and fortifications. China is being dealt with separately. Regarding the third proposal, some arrangement may be made to maintain the status quo in the Pacific. Describing the character of the arrangement, the spokesman said that it would probably take the form of a “cooling oil’’ agreement, providing for delay and discussion over a. period in cases where differences of opinion occur – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 9th December 1921, page 6 EUROPE FACING RUIN “The coming winter will he, in my humble judgment, the most anxious time Europe has had. since the armistice. “I am no prophet of woo, and do not indulge in scare-mongering, but. it is necessary to face realities; though that has not been the habit of European statesmen, and it is impossible to deny any longer that, financially and industrially, we are all going from bad to worse. “I can see no sign whatever of trade recovery: but, on the contrary, there is every prospect of increased distress. “What is the reason for this? Apart from all other factors in the world-wide chain of cause and effect, one dominating reason is the collapse of the German market. Germany, whether wo like it or not—and wo don’t —is the industrial centre of the European system. If she goes rotten her disease affects every country in Europe instantly, and, to be' plain and blunt, she is going bad, like Austria and like Poland, in a fever of false finance. “When I was in Germany recently I was amazed and impressed by the intense energy of the German people and their tremendous and successful efforts to recapture world trade, but my inquiries showed also that all this industrial output was based on cheap labour, cheap living, undercutting prices in all markets, and a drastic restriction of all imports to enable them to pay off their enormous indemnities. “It was clear that if they increased their exports to the amount required to meet the reparations payments, other countries like Great Britain would be shut out from their old markets. “It was also clear that payment of the indemnities in gold values would inevitably depreciate the value of the paper mark, thereby increasing Germany’s financial distress, while enabling her to undercut prices still more in foreign countries. “Both of these things have happened, and among other countries Great Britain is hard, hit, directly and indirectly. Germany, one of our biggest customers, no longer buys from us at 470 marks to the £. At the same time she is underselling us everywhere. “But Poland cannot buy from Germany, and still loss from us, with her mark at 21,000 to the £. “So the vicious circle goes on, and each swing of it lowers the purchasing power of the nations and reduces the vitality of industrial life. “Europe is desperately in need of manufactured articles. In Germany men and women want underclothing made in England or the United States, but cannot afford to buy it. Poland shivers in A great part of Russia starves to death in next to nakedness. Many countries cannot move goods for leek of* rolling stock, which the United States, Germany, and Great Britain could provide easily; but paper money will not pay for rails. “Bad is all this is, it may have one hopeful result. European statesmen are beginning to realise that a new political philosophy is necessary it they are to save their countries from financial downfall, and that Central Europe must be rescued, from ruin for the sake of all other peoples. This conviction has not been translated into immediate action; hut there is a now spirit of conciliation at work here and there. “France, for instance, is coming to see that a bankrupt Germany will not be to her advantage, and for that reason has withdrawn her economic barriers, between the Rhineland and the rest of Germany. Franco has also agreed to the League of Nations decision, not at first announced, but known privately, on the division of Upper Silesia, which given the main industrial area to Germany and the agricultural districts to Poland, who under French influence will also accept this repudiation of her ambitious claims” – Sir Philip Gibbs – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 9th December 1921, page 6 USE OF DRUGS London, November 19 – The correspondent of ‘The Times’ at Geneva states that an alarming increase in the cocaine habit has led to the arrest of fourteen persons, including a chemist, a doctor of science, and several hotelkeepers. They have been charged with trafficking in the drug. A doctor who was summoned to attend three dancing girls at a restaurant found that all were suffering from overdoses of cocaine. One of the girls had attempted to commit suicide. It is believed that the drug is obtained from Germany, and sold in cachet form at five francs a grain. The principal dealers frequent low-class restaurants, but dressmakers supply their clients, and disabled men have been found hiding cachets in smalt drawers inserted in their artificial limbs – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 10th December 1921, page 3 BRITAIN’S BUSINESS London, November 27 – The financial editor of ‘The Times’ states that the bankers’ report shows distinct signs of business improvement, attributable to the marked financial activity of the past two months, during which £60,000,000 was raised in loans, mainly for the Dominions and colonies. The reduction of the bank rate Contributed to the improvement. The Trade Facilities Act, designed to relieve unemployment, is now operating, and applications’ ire invited for Government guarantee of loans for capital undertakings, whether for the United Kingdom or abroad. Preference will be given to application* for undertakings within the Empire. As the total guarantee is limited immediate application is necessary – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 10th December 1921, page 4 BIRTH CONTROL [IN BRITAIN] London, November 30 – The Society for Constructive Birth Control, which has recently conducted extensive propaganda, agreed tonight to a resolution, moved by Dr Mane Slopes, urging the Minister of Labour to attach to unemployment doles slips warning recipients not to have children while they are unemployed, because they would be likely to be sickly or deformed – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 10th December 1921, page 4 THE POSITION OF JAPAN Tokyo, December 8 – According to the Teikoku News Agency, which is closely in touch with Government circles, the Cabinet and the Diplomatic Advisory Council have agreed to accept in principle the suggestion for a Four Power Entente, but it is unable to accept the view that this will include the abrogation of the Anglo-Japanese Alliance. The Alliance’s main object was to guarantee the territorial integrity of British, possessions in the Far East, including India, and the maintenance of the open door in China, thus ensuring peace in the Orient. The proposed Entente’s main object is to guarantee the territorial integrity of the Pacific Islands—namely, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Guam, Hawaii, and Yapp—but it does not cover the territorial integrity of China, the commercial equality of which forms the nucleus of the Alliance; therefore the formation of an Entente cannot include the abrogation of the Alliance until the naval limitation agreement is perfected and the Powers accept the four fundamental principles applying to China as laid down by Senator Root Instructions to that effect were cabled to the Japanese delegates last night –Reuter – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 10th December 1921, page 6 COMMUNIST DOCTRINE [IN THE UNITED STATES] Washington, December 9 – Attorney-General Daugherty, in his annual report, states that the movement which was launched by the Third International at Moscow to gain control of the trade and industrial unions of the world is meeting with marked success in the United States. The Syndicalist union and Communist parties in America have united in order more effectively to carry on propaganda and to obtain control of the unions. Many leaders of this movement are American citizens, but they are subject to orders from Moscow – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 10th December 1921, page 6 DAIL EIREANN London, December 9 – Mr De Valera DE VALERA, Eamon (1882 – 1975). Irish politician and patriot, who served as taoiseach (prime minister; 1932–48, 1951–54, 1957–59) and president (1959–73) of Ireland. An active revolutionary from 1913, he became president of Sinn Féin in 1917 and founded the Fianna Fáil party in 1926. In 1937 he made his country a “sovereign” state, renamed Ireland, or Éire. His academic attainments also inspired wide respect; he became chancellor of the National University of Ireland in 1921. He was president of the council of the League of Nations in 1932 and of its assembly in 1938. In June 1959 he was elected president. He was re – elected in 1966. He retired to a nursing home near Dublin in 1973 and died there in 1975. has issued the following statement to the Irish people: “The terms of the agreement are in violent conflict with the wishes of the majority of the Irish people as expressed freely at successive elections during the past three years. I feel it' to be my duty to inform you immediately that I cannot recommend the acceptance of this treaty either to Dail Eireann or to the country. In this attitude I am supported by my Ministers for Home Affairs and Defence. “A public session of the Dail Eireann has been summoned for Wednesday. I ask the people to maintain during the interval the same discipline as hitherto. The Cabinet, though divided, is prepared to carry on the public services. The army Is not affected by the political situation. The great test of our people has come. Let us face it worthily without recrimination”. Mr De Valera’s manifesto was to be sequel to a Cabinet meeting which lasted seven hours. The actual position is uncertain. It is possible that Mr De Valera and the two others may resign, leaving the remainder of the Cabinet to carry out the treaty. The Minister of Defence in the Dail Eireann is Mr Cathal Burgha, and the Home Minister is Mr Austin Stack. It is reported that at the Cabinet meeting Mr Griffith, Mr Barton, Mr Cosgrove, and Mr Collins voted for the acceptance of the terms – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 10th December 1921, page 6 EGYPTIAN CRISIS Cairo, December 7 – Zaghlul Pasha has issued a manifesto vilifying Great Britain and urging energetic measures to secure the liberation of Egypt, regardless of whether the people gather, the palms of martyrdom or the flowers of liberty – Reuter – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Monday 12th December 1921, page 2 RUSSIAN AND FINLAND Helsingfors, December 7 – A Finnish delegation -which was appointed to discuss economic questions between Finland and Russia has been arrested, on the frontier and removed to a quarantine station. Efforts made through the Soviet to obtain their release failed – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Monday 12th December 1921, page 2 RATHENAU’S MISSION London, December 9 – The ‘Daily Chronicle’ says that Herr Rathenau’s mission resulted in clearing up many misunderstandings. He has not secured' material concessions, but assurances of practical sympathy if Germany makes a serious effort to restore her economic stability by abolishing railway, postal, and other subsidies, and levying suitable taxation. Herr Rathenau has been enlightened regarding the British Budget methods, and received some conditional promises of financial assistance from private British bankers. He has also paved the way towards the resumption, of banking transactions between Germany and Britain, which are in a chaotic condition owing to the exchange rates. M. Loucheur had a conference with Sir Robert Horne. Both have now gone to “Chequers” to confer with Mr Lloyd George – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Monday 12th December 1921, page 3 BRITISH TRADE PROBLEMS Not long ago Mr Lloyd George consulted with representatives of organised Labour and with certain bankers and employers in regard to problems of unemployment. The Federation of British Industries, piqued at the Prime Minister’s arbitrary selection of individuals representing the employers’ side, forwarded him a memorandum on the subject. In the forefront was placed a direct reduction of taxation, accompanied by drastic economy of Government expenditure. International action in imposing a common currency policy on the rest of the world, so as to stabilise exchanges, was advocated, for the difficulties and sacrifices which some countries will have to face to secure stability, even at a low value for their currency, will he so great that it is probable they will not face them until external pressure is applied. Paper money presses would have to cease operation, and budgets would have to be balanced, and, after-stabilisation of their currencies, these would have to be reanchored to gold. Those who framed this memorandum consider that improvement can only be gradual, and a period of several years of extraordinary difficulty and considerable distress is anticipated. The present situation is regarded as a result of the reaction from the post-war boom being superimposed on the top of a cyclical trade depression of the type familiar before the war, but abnormal in its severity. Cyclical depressions have hitherto worked out their own cure in time, having from their very nature to yield to a revival of demand, and the memorandum states that for a revival of demand in the present exceptional circumstances two stimulants will be necessary—cheap money and the bringing of the selling prices of British goods into line with those of foreign competitors. In this connection it is cheering to notice that Germany, at present the most formidable of those competitors, is already showing signs of being a less important factor, her competitive power being largely based on artificial and temporary conditions, which must sooner’ or later disappear. Continental reports speak of Germany already failing to execute long-standing orders and making additions to agreed-upon prices. The United States is also finding it more and mora difficult to compete in international trade, chiefly because of her creditor position and her maintenance of a high Customs tariff. But the main, factor for England’s recovery, the memorandum states, is either an increased efficiency of labour in proportion to its remuneration or decreased remuneration without a decrease in efficiency, so ns to bring costs of production down. This exposition of the possibility of Britain recovering from the slump in her export trade –the main cause of her unprecedented unemployment – is of especial interest to ourselves, for if Britain does not export sufficiently she will be so much the less able to pay us for what she imports from us. In the latest cable on finance and trade conditions in Britain (appearing in. this issue) reference of the right kind is made to certain factors mentioned in the federation’s memorandum as being essential to recovery. There is a rumour that the British income tax is to be reduced in the spring. There is such extreme case in the money market that a reduction of the bank below 5 per cent, is expected. The mark and the franc have ceased violent fluctuations and arc recovering. New business is flowing into the woollen mills, in which industry surplus stocks are being reduced and steady consumption is reappearing, while there is a better spirit in industrial circles. All these must have a favourable heaving on Britain wearing round to trade recovery. That means as a concomitant healthier London markets for our produce. Those connected with the New Zealand dairying industry, however, will note as a set off that butter values must fall further, in harmony with lower prices for other 'foodstuffs. The plain fact is that the British consumer cannot pay the price, and the sooner this is realised the bettor. There had to be a reaction from the inflated values duo to Government control. It has been artificially retarded, but it has to come – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Monday 12th December 1921, page 4 THE WORLD’S CHANCE London, December 10 – Sir Philip Gibbs says Russia is in a bankrupt state, with a great bolt of agony and death on the Volga. The luckiest people are living from hand to mouth, and there are few with enough to eat. All life is reduced to a struggle for elementary needs, except in the case of the Soviet officials, who have first claim on supplies. Yet, says Sir Philip Gibbs, he does not want to paint the picture over darkly. Many Russians are not unhappy, possessing now hope. The resumption of the ownership of private property and trading has lifted an enormous weight from the spirits of the people, however hard their life may be. Again, the peasants outside the famine area are well –to-do and believe in the future. A new bourgeoisie has arisen from the system of bartering food supplies. Among some intellectuals of the old gentry exists the spirit of the front-line trenches, regarding poverty as a game of adventure. “Despite fears and perils this strange life, in its rags and tatters, fascinates one. I vow that I would like to stay and see things through. Russia will get through, as a people. Excepting in the Volga belt, the Soviet is still strong. Politically nobody sees any alternative to it, but it is so desperately in need of economic aid, and convinced of its own failure, that it is willing to yield any concession not involving self-annihilation in order to re-establish international credit. This is the world’s chance. Germany is ready to seize it. We are mad if we allow her to work alone at it. It is not only a duty, hut it is in the interests of Britain and America to come to the rescue of the Russian people. One day if helped she will be the world’s greatest market. We need not fear Bolshevism any longer. It Is dead. Lenin has confessed it a failure and cursed it as folly. The Government is swinging to the Right, and is cleansing its ranks of those refusing allegiance to new economic laws. We can impose what guarantees we like in return for our aid, ensuring their fulfilment by absolute control. Russia can be brought back to the family of nations. It is worthwhile” –Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Monday 12th December 1921, page 4 SINN FEIN DIVISIONS London, December 9 – It is likely that Mr Collins COLLINS, Michael (1890 – 1922). Irish revolutionary, soldier and politician who was a leading figure in the early-20th century struggle for Irish independence. He was Chairman of the Provisional Government of the Irish Free State from January 1922, and commander-in-chief of the National Army from July until his death in an ambush in August 1922, during the Civil War. and. Mr De Valera, will be the protagonists in the Dail Eirennn, for and against acceptance of the peace terms. The Republican extremists will naturally rally round Mr De Valera but the glamour of Mr Collins’s name will be a strong antidote. The Republicans accuse the signatories to the movement of yielding to threats of intensified warfare; but Mr Collins, who is largely regarded as Sinn Fein’s foremost warrior, announces that lie associates himself with Mr Griffith in the declaration cabled earlier. Soberer Irishmen are likely to be swayed strongly by Mr Griffith’s view. He is considered the brainest member of the Dail Eireann Cabinet. He will move the Dail Eireann's acceptance of the terms on Wednesday as leader of the London plenipotentiaries. The motion will not be submitted on Ireland of the Cabinet either way. owing to the division in Cabinet. Some members of the Dail Eireann will be influenced by the Trish-American opposition to the terms. Mrs Mary M'Swiney and the Countess Markievic, oppose the possibility of a permanent split by which the Republican brotherhood seek to dominate Sinn Fein – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Monday 12th December 1921, page 6 London, December 10 – The Daily News states that the Dublin split was caused by the. oath of allegiance. Mr Collins is almost heartbroken by severance from Air Dc Valera, to whom he was united by a real bond of affection. It is doubtful if Mr Collins would have signed the treaty but for Mr Griffith’s iron determination. The latter dominated the conference; and has triumphed by his clear vision, courage, and tenacious will. He will assume an almost unchallengeable leadership of the Irish people – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Monday 12th December 1921, page 6 ULSTER’S POSITION. London, December 9 – Sir James Craig and Mr Lloyd George had a two hours’ interview, and fully discussed the treaty, especially finance. It is understood that Sir James Craig suggested that if as the result of the frontier inquiry the Free State takes in some Roman Catholic areas, such as Fermanagh and Tyrone, the Northern Parliament should secure the Protestant areas of Cavan, Donegal, and Monaghan in exchange – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Monday 12th December 1921, page 6 PACIFIC PEACE PACT The announcement that a Treaty has been concluded between the four dominant Powers in the Pacific will be received with unfeigned feelings of relief and pleasure by all the civilised world. It was a consummation which all ardently desired, but for which few dared hope, and it should constitute a substantial guarantee for the maintenance of the world’s peace. The Washington Conference has far exceeded the highest hopes centred upon it, for it has demonstrated that the thoughts of the peoples of the earth were indeed turned towards peace, and that it was misunderstanding based on fear and suspicion that was the primary factor in the rush for armaments. It was felt that if an international “round fable” conference could be arranged, where the representatives of the several countries could talk matters over calmly and dispassionately, it would enable each to sec matters from the other’s viewpoint, and by dissipating suspicion enable a bail to be called in the ruinous competition. The idea was not original, for prior to the great upheaval in 1914-19 it was recognised that the climax of such rivalry could only be one thing, but suggestions of a naval holiday were received with derision by the chief culprit, who, whilst proclaiming pacific intentions, persisted in its suicidal policy, with what result the whole, world now knows. It was hoped that with the conclusion of the war there would be a great easing off in the expenditure on armaments, but far from Ibis being so the. nations in the Pacific, envisaging a bogey, prepared to meet it, and in doing so were heading towards bankruptcy, a course which could only have one ending. Far-sighted statesmen recognised the' danger, and President Harding by issuing his invitation to the Washington Conference determined to put the matter lo the test. It was felt that the proposal was a risk, for should the conference prove abortive it would but hasten the calamity which it sought to avert. The opening of the conference was most auspicious. Mr Hughes’ dramatic challenge put the nations on their mettle, and was calculated to test the genuineness of their pacific intentions, but the result showed that there was no Iscariot in the ranks. The proposals were received favourably and generally endorsed, and that one act established an atmosphere, which augured well for the success of the conference. It was recognised that the Pacific problem was a knotty one, and the existence of the Anglo-Japanese Alliance was some to complicate it, but the members of the conference did not despair. By the full, free and frank interchange of views they were able to appreciate each other’s standpoint and then set themselves to find a solution calculated, to preserve the general peace and the maintenance of their respective rights in relation to their insular possessions and insular dominions in the region of the Pacific Ocean. The new Four Power Pact, which replaces the Anglo Japanese Alliance, is the outcome. It ensures peace in the Pacific for a decade at least, and the outcome should be a great period of development in the arts of peace. There are still some difficult problems confronting the Washington Conference, but in view of the spirit animating the delegations and their Government and peoples it is not too much to expect that the conclusions in these will be equally as happy as those arrived at in regard to naval disarmament and the Pacific. The indicator points more strongly towards permanent peace now than for many years past, and the dissipation of the clouds which have been visible on the horizon for so long should materially add to the enjoyment of the approaching festive season – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Tuesday 13th December 1921, page 5 MISSION TO TIBET Delhi, December 11 – The mission under Mr C.A Bell, the British Political Agent, has been dissolved. It did much to strengthen the relations between the neighbouring tribes and the British Raj. It is emphatically denied that Bell brought a draft of the Anglo – Tibetan Treaty. He proceeded to Lhasa at the pressing invitation of the Dalai Lama, who, in view of the occurrences in Central Asia, sought and accepted his advice regarding the protection and development of Tibet. After devoting his best years to the Tibet frontier question, Bell retires to England – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Tuesday 13th December 1921, page 5 [WORLD’S] ECONOMIC SITUATION London, December 11 – The interesting suggestion is made that Mr Lloyd George and M. Briand may depart together for the United States immediately after the termination of their conversations' regarding Germany’s reparation and the Near Eastern problem, for which M. Briand is to visit Mr Lloyd George on Wednesday. Certain Ministers believe that Mr Harding is inviting the two Prime Ministers to participate in a new conference of all Powers to discuss the world’s economic position – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Tuesday 13th December 1921, page 5 BORAH OPENS FIGHT ON 4 – POWER PACT Indications of an impending fight in the Senate against the four-power pact proposed to the conference on limitation of armament were given late yesterday, when Senator Borah of Idaho fired the opening gun for the opposition on the floor of the Senate in the first skirmish. As at the opening of the long fight on the treaty of Versailles and its League of Nations covenant, practically all of the new quadruple treaty was read into the Congressional Record in advance of formal submission. The attack came from two "irreconcilables" in the Versailles Covenant Controversy, Senators Borah, republican. Idaho, and Reed, democrat, Missouri. Attitude Provisional Mr. Borah explained that his attitude toward the treaty would be governed to an extent by progress of the conference toward "real disarmament" and settlement of Chinese questions. The work of the Washington conference, he said, would be "discouraging" if it adjourned without barring, by terms of the treaty, the use of submarines, poisonous gases and other "barbarous" weapons of warfare. Defence of the pact was conducted largely by Senator Poindexter, republican. Washington, who told the Senate that some seemed unduly alarmed about the pact and declared that article II could not be construed as the equivalent of article X. Senator Reed, breaking into the debate at this point, said Senator Poindexter's statement meant that the new treaty was worth little as a binding agreement. He added that if the United States was not going to observe its moral obligations, such as he contended were contained in the treaty, the country would become "the laughing stock of the whole world." Likeness to Article X Mr. Borah said he regarded the moral obligations of article II as compelling the use of force as strong as did article X of the league, and in this was supported by Senator Robinson, democrat. Arkansas, who declared that, taken together, articles I and II of the treaty were "even stronger'* than article X. Mr. Robinson added, however, that he was entering no objection to the pact. Continuing. Mr. Borah said that while sponsors of the treaty declared there were no provisions to use military force "lurking in or about the treaty," the moral obligation remained. He contended that while American delegates to any conference provided for under treaty could not legally bind the President or Congress. the obligations to carry out the decision of the conference still remained. "In the language of Napoleon, then”, Senator Stanley, democrat, Kentucky, interrupted, "these four powers intend to have peace under the treaty even if they have to fight for it." Senator King, democrat, Utah, inquired of Mr. Borah whether the four power agreement did not contain more possibilities of war than did the league of nations covenant. Promises later discussion "I'll discuss that and some other provisions of this treaty later,'* Mr. Borah replied. The work of Secretary Hughes in presentation of the American naval reduction programme was commended by Mr. Borah, who said that by the "concise and bold" methods employed by the State Department head, he had won the right to be placed "among the great premiers and Secretaries of State of history." The programme of naval reduction was described by Mr. Borah as worthy of praise, but he added that the conference "so far as the public has been informed has not dealt with the weapons with which the next war will be fought." – Evening Star (Washington D.C, USA), Tuesday 13th December 1921, page 2 CRAIG SPEECH STIRS UP LLOYD GEORGE Belfast, December 13 – Prime Minister Lloyd George has informed Sir James Craig, the Ulster premier, that in view of Sir James' statement in the Ulster parliament yesterday on the correspondence regarding the Irish conference he proposes to pub lish the correspondence immediately Associated Press – Evening Star (Washington D.C, USA), Tuesday 13th December 1921, page 2 ULSTER FEELS INJURED London, December 12 – Notwithstanding the bitter feeling in Ulster against England, the great majority of the people are against going under the Dublin parliament, says the Belfast correspondent of the Morning Post. This follows a dispatch from the same correspondent on Sunday reporting a remarkable change of sentiment after publication of the treaty terms. The business community and people generally, he says, are "smarting under a sense of irreparable injury”, to a degree not experienced for a period of 150 years. The toast to the King has been expunged from the programmes of impending functions, as was done at several gatherings Saturday and the correspondent adds that this is symptomatic of the change in the temper of the people. The admiralty announces the cancellation of the decree issued under the restoration of order in Ireland regulations preventing eastbound passenger vessels from entering Queenstown. It is understood that the original order, which was issued October 10. 1920 was designed to prevent the importation into Ireland of arms from the United States – Associated Press – Evening Star (Washington D.C, USA), Tuesday 13th December 1921, page 2 [GERMAN] STOCK MARKET BOOM BURST Berlin, December 13 – The bottom dropped out of stock market boom, and frenzied buyers of last, week are now trying to unload with equal fervour. Prices have stumbled aid there are ugly rumours of impending failures. The failure of the Allgemeine Bankverein at Dusseldorf caused public confidence to be badly shaken, especially in view of the recent allure of the Palatinate Bank. Other interests in Southern and Western Germany arc known to be in difficulties' – By Electric Telegraph – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Wednesday 14th December 1921, page 3 THE IRISH QUESTION London, December 12 – Sir James Craig, addressing the Ulster Parliament, said he had never previously been confronted with such a complicated situation as the signature to the Treaty between Britain and the Sinn Fein had created. “We were not included therein, but were invited to sign it without going into the details. I must confess the Treaty had not carried Mr Lloyd George’s solemn pledges that Ulster's rights would not be prejudiced or sacrificed. “He advised members, however strongly they felt on the subject. not to act in any unconstitutional manner, leaving their interests in the bands of their representatives, the Imperial Parliament. they felt principally two points, finance and the boundary commission”. Mr James Craig said he hoped the Ulster people would maintain a dignified attitude, calm courage, and hopeful optimism, trusting to their leaders. Ulster was determined to stand by her ideals, and would not swerve an inch therefrom. They were only anxious to remain part and parcel of the British Empire – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Wednesday 14th December 1921, page 5 London, December 12 – Mr De Valera, in a statement, said: “I have been asked whether the honour of Ireland is not involved in ratification. The honour of Ireland is not involved. The plenipotentiaries were sent on the distinct understanding that any agreement, made was subject to the Dail Eireann's ratification and the country’s, and could be rejected by the Dail Eireann or the country if it did not commend itself thereto. The British Parliament and people will on their side similarly consider the agreement solely on its merits. If they desire so to do, the British Parliament and people can reject it. Ratification is not a mere formality. The United States refused to ratify the Treaty signed by President Wilson. The honour of the nation is not involved unless and until the Treaty is ratified” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Wednesday 14th December 1921, page 5 IS GERMANY CARRYING OUT THE PEACE TREATY? London, December 12 – The Labour trade union delegation, representing twelve countries, who have been on several weeks' tour of industrial Germany, visiting former Stale arsenals and munition factories, to assure themselves that Germany has carried out the Peace Treaty, report that they say demolished buildings and vast sheds stripped of machinery, the remains being piled into huge scrap heaps. Other machines were painted red, awaiting destruction. All. powder magazines were blown up, and any plant for the manufacture of 'war material annihilated. The only machinery spared is that convertible to other uses, such as the making of' agricultural machinery, motor bicycles, and typewriters. The military commission has done its work thoroughly – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Wednesday 14th December 1921, page 5 THE CONFERENCE Washington, December 12 – The completion of the Yap Convention makes possible the signing of the Quadruple Treaty concerning the Pacific which eventuates tomorrow, morning. All seven British delegates sign. The Naval Expert Committee, having completed its functions, has been dissolved and the committee, formed consisting of the heads of the British, United States, Japanese, French, and Italian delegations, with one civilian and one expert each, the object being to secure direct contact between the experts and the committees. M. Viviani's departure seems to indicate that French naval questions are either settled or postponed for further consideration in Europe. Most probably the former. The possibility was mentioned tonight of the cable convention being signed" dealing with ex-German cables in the Atlantic and Pacific, perhaps not at this conference, but soon. The convention will be quintuple, Britain, the United States, Japan, France, Italy. Holland gets the cable lap to Menado; Japan, Yap to Shanghai, which was diverted during the war to the Japanese coast, Tt is also probable that a convention will be signed shortly between Britain and the United States, covering the mandated islands south of the Equator, so that the provisions of the Yap convention have special interest to Australians, inasmuch as it may be expected that the United' States will ask that similar rights and privileges shall be accorded to" her in those islands, as in the case of Yap – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Wednesday 14th December 1921, page 5 LIQUIDATION OF INTERNATIONAL DEBTS London, December 13 – Many bankers and business men think American participation in the scheme for the liquidation of international debts is inevitable. Time must be given for the education of American public, which regards loans to Europe as assets for the relief of taxation, failing to see that America will gain more from relieving Europe than receiving payment of debts – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Wednesday 14th December 1921, page 5 RATHENAU’S MISSION Berlin, December 15 – Herr Rathenau has returned. It is understood that though he brought no definite agreement he assured the Chancellor that Britain is willing to reconsider Germany’s ability to pay the reparations. It is expected here that Britain will ultimately agree to a moratorium in preference to granting a long-term loan –Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Thursday 15th December 1921, page 5 THE POSITION OF ULSTER London, December 13 – The Irish correspondence between Mr Lloyd George and Sir James Craig was published to-day. Mr Lloyd George, writing on November 10, invited the Ulster Cabinet to confer regarding the final proposals in reaped to the Irish settlement, which was based: On Irish allegiance to the Throne and equal partnership of the Free States with the Empire; Provision for naval securities; Northern Ireland to retain all the powers conferred by the Home Rule Act A United Ireland to be recognised and the establishment of an All-Ireland Parliament. The Prime Minister's communication stated: “Northern Ireland will no doubt see many dangers in a settlement on these lines. It may be objected, for instance, that the patronage Involved] in the various public departments might be unfairly exercised on religious and other grounds. Although Utter will retain control of its education and kindred subjects, the Irish Government will be in a position to withhold the funds necessary to defray the administrative cost. Moreover, it might be feared if an All-Ireland Parliament wore to control the import and export trade the industries of Ulster would be imperilled; His Majesty’s Government recognises the force of these objections, and desires a consultation with yourself and your Cabinet as to bow they can beat be met. The Government is aware of the objections that Northern Irishmen feel to participation on any terms in an All – Ireland Parliament, and has therefore examined some of the alternatives and their consequences. Their study had convinced it that grave difficulties would be raised for both parties of Ireland if jurisdiction over the reserved subjects were not conferred upon a common authority. The Prime Minister pointed out the difficulties in connection with the Customs barriers between the North and the South, and the recasting of the financial proposals.” Mr Lloyd George proceeded: “It is an essential of Dominion status that the contribution pf the Dominion towards the Imperial charges shall he voluntary. If Northern Ireland is part of the Irish State, its contributions will be voluntary. On the other hand, if the South becomes a Dominion, while the North is part of the United Kingdom and has representation in the Imperial Parliament, it is clear that Ulster will have to bear a proportionate share in all the Imperial burdens. It must be evident that the people of Britain are making important sacrifices m the settlement in offering to forgo the right to exact from Ireland any contribution to the future Imperial expenses. It is impossible to deal with the question adequately in correspondence”. Mr Lloyd George concluded by inviting the Northern Ministry to confer with the British Cabinet. Sir James Craig, replying on November 11, expressed surprise that the question of allegiance was included in the proposals to be discussed, inasmuch as Mr Lloyd George himself stated that it was not open to discussion. The. Government of Northern Ireland considered that the allegiance of Southern Ireland was a matter resting with the British Ministry, Sir James Craig raid that, nevertheless, the loyal population of Northern Ireland would be glad to fed assured regarding the permanent allegiance of Southern Ireland to the King, and that its enduring participation in a partnership with the Empire would be no longer questioned. “An All – Ireland Parliament cannot under the existing circumstances”, said Sir James Craig, “be accepted by Northern Ireland. Ulster's detestation of an All –Ireland Parliament is in no degree diminished by the local institutions conferred under the Act of 1920. North Ireland in convinced that no paper safeguards will protect it against maladministration, and its objection to participation in 0i All-Ireland Parliament has been materially strengthened by recent events. For these reasons the Government of Northern Ireland feels compelled to state that any discussion will be fruitless unless the British Ministry contents to withdraw the proposal of an All-Ireland Parliament.” Sir James Craig went on to suggest that an alternative which the British Ministers do not appear to have considered is that reserved powers, instead of being entrusted to a common authority, should be conferred on the Governments of Southern and Northern Ireland within the areas of their respective jurisdiction. This might involve Northern Ireland in the loss of her representation in the Imperial Parliament j but this is a lesser evil than her inclusion in an All-Ireland Parliament. Mr Lloyd George, replying on the 14th, pointed out that Sir James Craig’s counterproposals that Southern and Northern Ireland should be constituted' as two separate Dominions, says: “In our judgment the proposal is indefensible. The British Cabinet is opposed to it on the ground of the broad Imperial principle that the creation of two Dominions in Ireland would fundamentally change the existing system of the Imperial organisation. The status of the Dominions is based upon the gradual amalgamation of largo territories in scattered colonics into natural units of golf-government”. Mr Lloyd George concluded by asking the Ulster Government to enter a conference without making preliminary conditions. Sir James Craig on the 17th replied insisting on th3 desirability of granting Ulster the status of a separate Dominion rather than placing Ulster under the Sinn Fein. “If Ulster is forced to leave the United Kingdom against the wishes of her people”, he says, “she will desire to be left in a position to make her own fiscal and International policy, and to retain British traditions, ideals, language, and currency”. At this stage the negotiations, between Mr Lloyd George and Sir James Craig were interrupted owing to the latter being laid up with an attack of influenza. Mr Lloyd George on the 18th suggested an informal talk when Sir James Craig recovered. Mr Lloyd George on December 5 wrote enclosing a copy of the Irish settlement terms. In a covering letter he pointed out that the Government of Northern Ireland had been invited to choose between two alternatives—(l) retaining all her existing powers if she will enter the Irish Free State, with such additional guarantees ns may be arranged at a conference; (2) retaining her present powers, but in respect to all matters not already delegated she will share the rights and obligations of Great Britain. “In the latter case,” said the Prime Minister, “we feel unable to defend the existing boundary, which must be subject to revision on one side and the other by a Boundary Commission” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Thursday 15th December 1921, page 5 THE PACIFIC TREATY Washington, December 13 – The following agreement was signed with the treaty: “In signing the treaty this day between the United States, the British Empire, France, and Japan it Is declared that the understanding and intent of the signatory Powers is: The treaty shall apply to the mandated Islands of the Pacific Ocean, provided, however, that the making of the treaty shall not be deemed an assent on the part of the United States to the mandates and shall not preclude agreements between the United States and mandatory Powers respectively in relation to the mandated islands. The controversies to which the second paragraph in Article 1. refers shall not be taken to embrace questions which according to the principles of international law lie exclusively within the domestic jurisdiction of the respective Powers. Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Thursday 15th December 1921, page 6 PROBLEMS OF EUROPE London, December 14 – The Chronicle suggests that M. Briand and Mr Lloyd George should convene a conference of all European Powers to apply the lessons learnt at Washington and contrive a pact for Europe similar to that accepted in relation to the Pacific – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – New Zealand Times (Wellington, NZ), Friday 16th December 1921, page 5 INDUSTRIAL FRONTIERS Paris, December 15 – Lord Derby, speaking at a luncheon at the Inter – Allied Club, appealed to Frenchmen to realise that England had a frontier to defend like France. “France has the devastated region, but the mines and workshops are the devastated regions of England, where thousands of soldiers who fought side by side with Frenchmen are vainly seeking work and their families are starving. “If M. Briand does not protect the French frontiers, he would be a coward. If Mr Lloyd George tries to protect the industrial frontiers, he does not do this for selfish motives, but is attempting to defend those who fought side by side with the French” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – New Zealand Times (Wellington, NZ), Friday 16th December 1921, page 5 THE FOOTPRINTS OF EVEREST The progress of the Royal Geographical Society’s expedition to Mount Everest, under the leadership of Colonel Howard Bury, has been watched with keen interest by scientists, especially at the Natural History Museum, South Kensington, to which the spoils will be brought for study and classification on the return of the party. Ono statement in Colonel Bury’s despatch has excited special curiosity, and it is hoped that this may be satisfied by further discoveries in the course of the expedition, “Even at these heights (more than 20,000 ft)”, writes Colonel Bury, “there are curious tracks in the snow. We distinguished hare and fox tracks; but one mark, like that of a human foot, was most puzzling. The coolies assured me that it was the track of a wild, hairy man, and that these men. were occasionally to be found in the wildest and most inaccessible mountains”. An Observer representative, who made inquiries into this statement at South Kensington, found that naturalists are by no means prepared to scout the idea of a human race living at such altitude. The probability is, however, that the supposed “wild, hairy man" is in reality a baboon, known as a Macaque, which is known to live at great heights on the Himalayas, and the footprint would be very similar to the human foot. Mr M.A.C. Hinton, of the Mammals Department, recalled that the Esquimo live under equally difficult conditions as regards temperature. The whole question, he said, is one of species and the conditions to which it is accustomed. In different climates and not very different levels, various species of monkeys live all the year round, but so far as it is known the greatest altitude is about 10,000 feet above sea level. A gorilla, which is the nearest approach to man has been known to live at that height on the Sabinyo Volcano, in Central Africa, which furnishes an instance of the high altitudes at which apes can live in warm climates. The nearest parallel to the mysterious animal whoso footprints have been discovered by Colonel Bury is the Macaque, which was found in Tibet, living in a moat inaccessible part of the wooded mountains, which are covered in snow for half the year. Mr Hinton stated that the legend of a wild, hairy man inhabiting those parts was familiar to him long before the present, discovery; but up till now no definite facts had been ascertained. “But, what to my mind is even more important”, he added, “than finding apes at 10,000 feet, is the fact that you get mice at a height of 18,000 feet on the Andes, showing that mammals (to which man belongs) can regularly support life at very high levels” – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 16th December 1921, page 2 BACK TO TRIBALISM On Saturday a new phrase appeared in the despatches, states a writer in the Toronto Globe. Mr Lloyd George warned the world against “a return to tribalism.” “Although phrases are about the most dangerous things of which the world has had experienced. I like the look and the sound of this one. It is so satisfactory an answer to ex-President Wilson’s devastating phrase about self-determination. This phrase was about the most dangerous thing that came out of the war. It sowed the seeds of all lands of now wars. The right of people to self-determination in the matter of government made a wonderful and terrible appeal to people who were weary of misgovernment and conquest. If the right to determine how they should be ruled could be guaranteed by the League of Nations all the world would he happy and satisfied. The phrase caught the fancy of humanity at once, and every race began to clamour for self-determination. But, as races and nationalities have become hopelessly mixed through past wars and conquests, it was manifestly impossible for all of them to secure self-determination without wars and disruptions of all lands. “Self-determination carried to its logical conclusion would moan anarchy. Rulers and statesmen everywhere were beginning to char at this smooth phrase, but without knowing how to combat it. It promised to cause as much trouble in the world as Germany's “Will to power” and “A place in the sun”. But now it has been answered by another phrase that may save us from much war and misery. In my present enthusiasm I am inclined to regard Mr Lloyd George's latest phrase as his greatest achievement. He has placed the issue squarely before the world. Are we to give up our present civilisation for “a return to tribalism? This is well worth thinking over and considering in all its applications. “I do not suppose that anything can be done about it, but the world seems to be at the mercy of the phrasemakers. Just think of the trouble that has been caused by the phrases about infallibility, divine right, equality, and similar ideas that appeal to tortured humanity. The history of the world might be rewritten as a library of its phrases. The phrasemaker is the real conqueror. Catchy phrases have worked for good and for evil since in all first began to talk and to think. Battle cries were simply phrases that inflamed soldiers and partisans. Every election has its phrases. And many of those phrases have been wrecking established order. But here is a new phrase, “A return to tribalism,’’ that sounds a warning. It calls a halt instead of lashing us forward to a new fury of endeavour. “Let us stop and consider what the work was like, when it was made up of warring tribes. Do we want a return to that state? The greatest good achieved by democracy is to teach us to be tolerant and to submit to the rule of the majority. Democracy taught us to discuss contentious matters, to arbitrate and compromise, no that, we could get along without lighting. With the spread of democratic ideas came the spread of education and of all things that made civilisation worthwhile. But the Great War stopped the work of democracy, and Wilson’s phrase about “self, determination” threatened to make the disaster complete. It was leading us straight back to tribalism. “There seems to be no way of controlling the making of phrases. A phrase is as likely to be wined in a street 'corner or grocery store discussion aa in Parliament. It may come from a soap-box orator just as readily as from a statesman. But it is high time that we took warning. Phrases gallop over the world like the horsemen of the Apocalypse. The least we can do is to weigh all phrases, no matter how appealing, before we begin to shout them or to follow those who shout them. Let us examine each new phrase to see if it is destructive or constructive. There are other phrases besides “self –determination” that are leading us back to tribalism, or worse. There are phrases that narrow our sympathies and sow hatred. The time has come when we must seek for phrases that will promote peace and unity and brotherhood throughout the world. Surely we have had enough of war and hatred. We need, to cultivate friendship among ourselves and with other people. For this reason we should view this new election cries with caution. Let us test them by Mr Lloyd George’s new phrase. Will they tend to lead us “back to tribalism”? The world has been headed in that direction for the past couple of years—and the prospect is far from pleasing. We have reached a point where a phrase may make us or break us” – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 16th December 1921, page 4 JAPAN AND THE NAVAL RATIO Washington, December 14 – Semi-official confirmation is available today of the statements regarding the Japanese efforts to save the Mutsu. agreeing to Mr Hughes’s 5, 5,3 plan, the Japanese made certain to the Big Three. Therefore the technical advisers had again to be called. The proposals would involve Japan keeping the Mutsu and Nagata, the United States completing two of her newest battleships, and England building two more, with a corresponding reduction in the tonnage of all three nations. Mr Hughes and Mr Balfour were anxious to meet Admiral Kato's proposals, but the most complicated calculations involved in the negotiations so far are tending towards an effort to keep the building programme down as far as possible. None of the schemes advanced to date is quite satisfactory in this regard. Everything said by the American spokesman this afternoon born out the earlier message regarding a satisfactory completion of the naval ratio. He declared that the progress was good. The questions remaining for settlement were rather a matter of detail than anything else. He hoped that a definite statement would be made shortly. He indicated that the French and Italian ration would, not be a part of that statement, which would deal only with the arrangements made by the three big Powers. The Australian Press Association is able to state definitely that America has consented to the Japanese retaining the Mutsu after a prolonged conference yesterday between Mr Hughes, Admiral Kato, and Mr Balfour. Japan’s acceptance of the ratio which arrived in Washington last week was unconditional, but was coupled with an earnest plea from Admiral Kato for the retention of the Mutsu. because of the intense feeling in regard to the matter throughout Japan. Mr Hughes was most sympathetic. Mr Balfour assented, stipulating only that there is no change in the ratio and that Japan should scrap older tonnage to balance the addition. The United States will keep the Colorado and West Virginia, two of the newest battleships. Britain may build two super-Hoods or adopt, a new type or vessel, falling within the 35,000-ton proviso in Mr Hughes’s plan. The question is entirely a technical one, and the new committee of fifteen mentioned the other day is meeting this afternoon to consider the matter. At present there is a leaning towards the new typo, peeing that the super-Hoods will be a class by themselves – Australian and Press Cable Association – evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 16th December 1921, page 5 A QUESTION OF TYPES WASHINGTON, December 14 – A delayed message from Tokyo says that it is officially stated that Japan’s acceptance of the “5,5,3” naval programme makes as a condition her retention of the Matsu. It is understood that the only thing which now stands in the way of a settlement of the naval ratio question is the type of vessel to be allotted to Great Britain under the modified scheme. Mr Hughes does not want to see a super-Hood built, because it would exceed a tonnage of 35,000, which is the maximum allowed under his plan. Great Britain is logically entitled to this type, because it represents the latest development of her Navy, as the Mutsu and the Colorado do those of Japan and the United States respectively; but it is doubtful whether it is advantageous to build a ship of this type, as it would be the last to he allowed. All the docking and repairing facilities would have to be altered to fit the requirements, and no other ship built hereafter would want them; therefore it is possible that Great Britain may decide to accept Mr Hughes’s view – Australian and Press Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 16th December 1921, page 5 TALK OF [IRISH] REFERENDUM London, December 16 – A Dublin message states that Mr De Valera’s party is aiming at a referendum, though it would entail delay, which the gravest menace to the truce, the breaches of which are not instigated by the leaders. The Dail Eireann is conducted over a volcano – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 17th December 1921, page 3 London, December 15 – The Evening Standard’s Dublin correspondent asserts that, though Mr De Valera’s great point to the public is that the plenipotentiaries failed to submit the treaty before signing, the real division behind the scenes is the question of allegiance. That is the stumbling block. Many of Mr Valera’s present followers are anxious for ratification, but are both to face the possibility of Mr De Valera’s complete retirement from the Irish government. Mr Collins is now assured of clear majority of 64 out of 120 – Australia and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 17th December 1921, page 3 REPARATIONS INSTALMENTS Paris, December 16 – Dr Wirth, writing to the Reparations Commission, says: “The success of our attempt to pay the January and February instalments depended on the flotation of a loan for which active collaboration with British financiers was essential. The Government opened negotiations in England, but failed; consequently, even by ignoring the requirements of our own Budgets, the Government cannot procure more than 150,000,000 to 250,000,000 gold marks in cash. It therefore is obliged to ask for an extension of time. The Government realises that similar difficulties will arise in connection with subsequent payments.” The instalment duo in January amounts to 500,000,000, and tho February instalment to 250,000,000 gold marks – Press Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 17th December 1921, page 4 [NAVAL LIMITATION] AGREEMENT ANNOUNCED Washington, December 15 – Mr Hughes has officially announced the completion of an agreement between Britain, the United States, and Japan on the question of the naval ratio. The 5.5.3 proposal has been accepted. It is agreed that the fortifications and naval bases in the Pacific, including Hong Kong, will remain in status quo; but the agreement does not apply to Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan proper. The Mutsu will be retained by Japan and the Setsu will be scrapped. The United States will keep the Colorado and Washington, but will scrap the Delaware and the North Dakota. Britain will build two ships of the Royal Sovereign class not exceeding 35,000 tons, and will scrap the King George, Erin, Ajax, and Centurion when the two now ships are completed. The naval holiday will be maintained, except for the United States and British ships mentioned. The arrangement is dependent on a suitable agreement being reached with Franco and Italy with respect to their capital ships – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 17th December 1921, page 4 DETAILS OF THE AGREEMENT Washington, December 15 – Official: Mr Hughes said that while the differences as to tonnage wore small, there was a considerable difference as to efficiency, as the retention of the Mutsu would give Japan two post-Jutland ships of the latest design. In order to meet the situation and to preserve the relative strengths on the basis of the agreed ratio, it was agreed that the United States shall complete two ships which are in the course of construction—the Colorado and the Washington—which are about 90 per cent, completed, and scrap two older ships—the North Dakota and the Delaware. This will leave the United States the same number of capital ships as was originally proposed, with a tonnage of 525,850. against 600,650. Three ships would be of the Maryland type. As the British had no post-Jutland ships except one Hood, which was only partly post-Jutland, it was agreed that, in order to maintain a proper relative strength, the British may construct two new ships not to exceed 85.000 tons, each according to the British standards of measurement, or, according to the American calculations, 37.000 tons. It was also agreed that on the completion of these two now ships Great Britain shall scrap four vessels of the King George V type, which were to have been retained. This would leave Great Britain twenty capital ships instead of twenty-two, with a tonnage of 682,050, instead of 604,450. This would give Britain an excess of tonnage against the United States of 66,200, which is deemed fair in view of the age of ships of the Royal Sovereign and Queen Elizabeth types. The maximum tonnage of capital ships for the purpose of replacement on the basis of the American standard calculation is as follows: United States and Britain, each 525,000; Japan, 315,000 tons. Comparing this with the original proposal, the United States will scrap thirty ships, thirteen of them being under construction, instead of fifteen, and seventeen older ships, with tonnage of 820,540, instead of 845,740. Japan will scrap 435,328 tons, instead of 448,923 tons. Great Britain will scrap twenty-three ships, with a tonnage of 605,975, instead of nineteen, with a tonnage of 503,375. This will make the grand total to be scrapped sixty – eight ships of 1,871,644 tons. The naval holiday for ten years in respect to capital ships, as originally proposed by the American Government, will be maintained, except for the permission to construct ships as above stated. This arrangement between Great Britain, the United States, and Japan is, so far as the number of ships to be regained and scrapped is concerned, dependent upon a suitable agreement with Franco and Italy as to their capital ships. This matter is now in course of negotiation – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Saturday 17th December 1921, page 4 SUB JUSTIFIED, ADMIRAL AVERTS Washington, December 17 – “The attention of the world has been focused on the submarine. Mr Balfour frankly admit that the small coast defence submarine of short cruising radius is a weapon of defence for weak nations against the aggression of the strong upon the sea and he also recognises the great offensive power of the long range cruising submarine in naval warfare. “It is plain that the great maritime nations, with the exception of the United States, may look with favour Mr Balfour’s suggestion. They have reason to do so and many good people, the world over, recalling German frightfulness, would heartily applaud the complete extermination of the submarine. “We must avoid a precipitate action. The legitimate uses of the submarine must be denied. The charges against it have been exaggerated. It is not more inhumane than many other weapons upon which no restrictions are placed. International law can control the submarine within the limits that the world will recognise as humane” – By W.F Fullam, Rear Admiral U.S Navy – South Bend News Times (South Bend, Indiana, USA), Sunday 18th December 1921, page 5 STINNES, GERMAN TZAR OF BUSINESS, ATTACKS GOVERNMENT OF WIRTH Berlin, December 17 – Hugo Stinnes, the economic Kaiser of Germany, launched a vigorous attack on the Wirth government in a secret session of the Foreign Committee of the Reichstag, it was learnt on high authority. Stinnes declared Wirth’s acceptance of the London ultimatum was responsible for the present reparations calamity. “We must remove the government of professors which has not been able to get our needed credits. We must replace them with the great coalition of the Deutsch Nationals and Social Democrats. These parties are mainly composed of men personally able to give substantial guarantees for credits”. The reply of Wirth was heated and bitter. He said not only Stinnes himself and his envoys have succeeded in convincing Great Britain that the present system of reparations is impracticable. He declared he would ultimately seek a vote of confidence in the Reichstag – South Bend News Times (South Bend, Indiana, USA), Sunday 18th December 1921, page 5 THE RUSSIAN FAMINE Washington, December 15 – The House of Representatives' Committee on 'Foreign Affairs has reported favourably on a Bill appropriating 2,000,000 dollars for the purchase of grain and other food products for distribution in the Russian famine districts. This will provide twice the amount of food President Harding asked for in a message to Congress – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Monday 19th December 1921, page 2 GERMANY’S DEFAULT Paris, December 17 – The comment on Germany's default in the next reparation payments is frankly hostile. It is pointed out that Germany is crying poverty whilst allowing tier finances to remain in a chaotic' state. The newspaper Excelsior asserts that Germany has completely surprised the Reparations Commission, which had devised a comprehensive scheme for effecting improvement in Germany's finances, having already discovered that Germany was able to pay. The paper expects that Germany will demand a reduction in the number of troops in the occupation area. Le Matin thinks the Reparations Commission will do nothing except report Germany's voluntary default, leaving the decision to the Allied Governments. The Petit Parisian expects an immediate conference to discuss the situation – Reuter’s Telegram – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Monday 19th December 1921, page 5 London, December 16 – The Paris correspondent of the Daily Express states that if the Reparation Commission decides to invite the German Chancellor to produce proofs of Germany's insolvency, France will insist that all her allies recognise her right to priority in compensation for her devastated areas. France needs ready money badly, and if Germany defaults it is practically certain that France will put military and economic penalties into execution on January 15, even at the risk of breaking the Entente. The only way by which M. Briand will be able to save his Government will be to announce a march into the Ruhr Valley – Reuter’s Telegram – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Monday 19th December 1921, page 5 WASHINGTON CONFERENCE Washington, December 16 – The battle is joined between France and Italy in the Naval sub-Committee regarding the tonnage of their capital ships. France has laid proposals before the sub-committee providing for the building of 10 capital ships of the maximum tonnage allowed, to start in 1925. These proposals, if carried out, would give her a capital ship tonnage of 350,000 in 1935. Italy does not approve of this, but if France carries out her programme, Italy must do the same. This would mean the addition of 700,000 tons of capital fighting ships to the European battle fleets in 10 years at a cost of about £100,000,000. Britain objects to the whole plan, which she is entirely unable to accept as it would put her" at a serious disadvantage against a possible combination of France and Italy. Moreover, if France started to build in 1925, she would acquire great superiority, which would make it necessary for "Britain to build seven new ships, at the end of the naval holiday to ensure merely equality with France. Britain does not want to deny France an adequate navy, but she regards the present French proposal as wishing the inevitable destruction of Mr C. E. Hughes' plan. The United States is understood to take the same view. Beyond doubt, feeling has commenced and is growing against France in consequence of her conduct at the conference. This feeling is expressed both in the press and in public as one of irritation that she should be the only nation which apparently is not ready to make sacrifices. The opinion is expressed that she is still imbued with the old militaristic spirit, and is still looking back to her triumphs on the battlefields for a century past –Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Monday 19th December 1921, page 5 SOUTHERNERS FIGHT ANTI- LYNCHING BILL Washington, December 19 – The Dyer Anti – Lynching Bill was passed in the House Monday night. The vote was 170 to 42 with five members voting present, and was reached only after more than two-hour delay through quorum calls demanded by Representative Garrett of Tennessee, the democratic leader, who directed the opposition to the bill. Twice the sergeant –at –arms was sent out with warrants to arrest absentees before quorum was obtained. Two hours were devoted to the debate which ended in the Bill being given right of way in the House. The Bill, introduced by Representative Dyer, Republican of Missouri, would provide heavy fines and imprisonment for persons participating in lynching and for officials who failed through negligence to prevent mob violence, it would also require counties in which lynching occurred to forfeit $ 10,000 to the family of the person killed. Among those urging the passage of the measure were Mr Campbell of Kansas and Representatives Fess of Ohio and Ansorge of New York, Republicans, while those who spoke in opposition included Mr Garret and Dou of North Carolina and Aswell of Louisiana – South Bend News Times (South Bend, Indiana, USA), Tuesday 20th December 1921, page 1 THE DEBT AND THE TREATY “Philosophers may sing of the troubles of a king” but Mr Lloyd George and M, Briand, meeting again in London, may doubt if they are comparable to those of a debt collector. The extraction of reparation payments from Germany does not grow easier with experience of the process. Official opinion in both Britain and France has apparently made up its mind, after some uncertainty in the former country, that Germany can pay if she has the will to do so, The Reparation Commission has so reported, and for official purposes its report should be the last word of the subject. It is certain, however, that Germany’s will to pay is nothing like the will to power which she displayed in war time. It was intimated by her Government a few weeks ago, in reply to allied pressure, that to find the money for January and February instalments would be wholly beyond her ability unless a delay was granted. But if a postponement is made now, what is to happen the next time that an instalment falls due? The money that is hard to find now will be harder to find when an accumulation of arrears has to be added to it. In asking for an extension of time Dr Wirth has, indeed, admitted that similar difficulties will arise in connection with future payments. German manufacturers have been investing fortunes outside of their own country while their Government pleads poverty and pursues a policy which has every appearance of the designed to keep its finances. The Allies have mournful cause to believe that they are dealing with a fraudulent debtor. How to enforce payment, in the face of German reluctance to pay and passive resistance, is the problem which Mr Lloyd George and M. Briand have to consider. Franco in this matter stands in a better position than her Ally, because by the Wiesbaden agreement Germany has contracted to make payments to her to a large amount every year in materials, the value of which would be deducted from the financial instalments. That agreement, however, is still subject to revision, the British member of the Reparations Commission having represented that it could only be carried out in the form arrived at between France and Germany in the expense of other creditors. France is especially perturbed, however, about her prospects of receiving payments in gold immediately due to her. She needs the money more than Great Britain needs it, and if it is not forthcoming without such pressure it has been predicted the only way in which M. Briand will be able to save his Government will be to announce a march of troops into the Ruhr region. But Gorman industry would not be encouraged by that procedure, and it is on the industry of German workers and their confidence in their own Government that the ability of Germany to pay reparations must in the last resort depend. It is hard to see how more than a fraction of the debt can ever be collected without the co-operation of Germany. “If” Sir George Paish has said, “the Allies occupied the Ruhr, seized Germany’s Customs, and controlled her finances, it would lead to the destruction not only of Germany, but of ourselves and the whole world”. It is fitting that the Germans should be made to pay for the crimes which they committed, but whether they can ever pay without doing more harm to the Allies than to themselves remains a moot question. ‘‘We lose more in our country”, Mr M’ Kenna, ex-Chancellor of the British Exchequer, said recently, “by the existence of two million unemployed than we shall ever get in value from German reparations over a period of thirty years.” Unemployment, in his view, has not been unconnected with the reparations that have been already paid by Germany. It is no wonder that Marshal Foch la dissatisfied with the treaty. In a recent conversation the Field-Marshal is reported to have recalled the distrust of the Versailles settlement, which was expressed by him at the time when it was made. He is said to have told the French Ministers then that they were mailing a treaty under which Franco would lie neither defended nor paid. Since he despairs, apparently, of anything like full payments being made to France, the Field-Marshal would make sure of defence. The treaty, in his view, should have given her the Rhine frontier. It would certainly be a worse treaty if it had done so. The troubles of France would be increased and not diminished if she had to rule several million Germans as reluctant subjects. A new war, for their restoration to the Fatherland, would be made a certainty of the future. The risks which may threaten the peace of Europe now, from the absence of a strong frontier between Germany and France and default for the whole total of reparations, would be small evils by comparison. There is an allied army of occupation now in the Rhineland. It consists of 150,000 men— French, for by far the greater part, it shocks Mr Massingham, editor of the Loudon ‘Nation’ when all the German crimes have been forgotten by him. “They live on the fat of that fertile land”, he has written recently. “They are the best housed, the best paid, the best dressed, and the best amused of the population. Exhibiting to the outer eye the busy idleness of the perfect parasite, their true business is not to do work but to hinder it. For the most part they live in complete detachment from the will of the inhabitants or in defiance of it. Their foot is on every political liberty that men cherish.” We shall not weep for the innocent Germans who have to suffer the presence of this army, as Mr Massingham does. But it is unlikely to be an incentive to industry. Its cost makes a real disadvantage of it. It was officially slated a few days ago that all the reparations received by Great Britain from Germany up to date were unequal to the cost of Great Britain’s email part of the Army of Occupation. French brigades sent to the Ruhr might collect more indemnities from Germany, but if they all went to paying the expenses of the soldiers France would be no better off. She would be worse off with a Rhine frontier – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 21st December 1921, page 6 DE VALERA’S OPPOSITION London, December 19 – In the course of his speech at the public session of Dail Eireann Mr De Valera vehemently declared that if the treaty were ratified there would be a lack of flags in the Dublin streets if the King came to open the Parliament; but if a proper peace had been made the King would have been welcomed. Answering loud cries of dissent, Mr De Valera declared that if they could not bring the King here as the head of a friendly nation, how in heaven’s name could the King come as the head of the Irish Free State? The treaty would lead to a period of international strife. The Irish people could change their minds if they so desired; but until then they should do what they said they would do. The new army of Ireland, would be the King’s army. Cries of “No.” “I hope it won’t have a chance,” said Mr De Valera, “and that the treaty will now be thrown out. The executive authority of Ireland will be the British Monarch, with British authority over the army, which will have to swear allegiance to an English Monarch”. In conclusion, Mr De Valera quoted Parnell’s dictum against attempting to set a boundary to the nation’s onward march, which was what the treaty entailed. Mr Austin Stack and Count Plunkett supported the rejection. Mr Michael Collins said that he would stand up for the signature he had given, and he would repeat it in the Dail Eireann or anywhere else. (Cheers.) It had been said that the plenipotentiaries went down before the first British bluff. “Britain put up a pretty good bluff for the last two years.” he said. “I never broke down before it.” (Cheers.) The acceptance of the invitation to confer was no acceptance of an association within the Empire. If they had held out for a republic there would have been no conference. The treaty gave, them all the freedom any nation need and desire in which to develop. They had substituted common citizenship with the Dominions for the subjection of Ireland. Were they to continue an impossible fight they would never start on their own feet. The delegation was confident that there would be goodwill towards Ulster, and that eventually Ulster would come under an Irish Parliament. It was unfair to quote the dead as against the signatories. He was convinced that many of them would have realised they had acted in Ireland’s best interests. Mr Childers described clause 6 as most humiliating. In face of the naval provisions it was useless to talk of Ireland’s equality and ability to make treaties. She would be merely an English protectorate. The King’s representative would be the centre of authority, and the Ministers of (he Provisional Government would be the King’s – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 21st December 1921, page 6 ARMS CONFERENCE Washington, December 19 – Well authenticated reports reached Washington today that M. Briand told Colonel Harvey in London that the French Government would accede to Mr Hughes's suggested ratio of 1.7. The French delegation here professes to know nothing concerning the matter, but it is significant that at their request a meeting of the Naval Sub-committee called for today was postponed on the plea that the cables from London have Hill not been received. Apparently the surmise that the whole question is being discussed between Mr Lloyd George and M. Briand is correct, and finality was not reached in time for the morning’s meeting here. Britain’s semi-official spokesman found St necessary to-day to deny the report that Britain ever opposed France being a signatory to the Four-Power Pacific Pact. The tension here was lifted during the afternoon. It is known that the French received long despatches from London, the presumption, which is based on authoritative Press cables, being that M. Briand instructed the delegation to agree to some substantial reduction in their demands. The American spokesman was much more cheerful to-day. Therefore, without anything really definite being available, the discussion has taken a. more hopeful note. It is understood that the Dutch are pressing for some recognition of their position in the Pacific, where they have no guarantee against aggression, as have the four Powers concerned in the pact. There will be probably, therefore, be another treaty taking in the Netherlands, which may be separate or attached to the proposed Nine Power Treaty. The French issued their first statement tonight. It does not say much. M. [Albert] Sarraut explained that word had been received from Paris and London, which he immediately submitted to Mr Hughes. After a- two hours’ session it was agreed that the whole matter be referred to a meeting of the Naval Sub-committee of fifteen tomorrow. The attitude of the French Government, M. Sarraut stated, was to do the best to come to a satisfactory settlement, and present indications are that they are, approaching an agreement. One hopeful sign is that M. Sarraut referred to “unexpected” events arising which might necessitate further reference to the French Government; but he also hinted that instructions had been received which covered both subjects—capital ships and submarines. This suggests that the French are still in the mood for bargaining, and want to offset their yielding on (he capital ship question by securing the maximum allowance of submarines. This will not suit the British, who are pressing for a plenary session this week to be set apart as a field day for discussion of the submarine question, so that they can state their case for the abolition of submarines. If the French make their acceptance of the capital ship ratio contingent on a greater submarine allowance, the issue is likely to be obscured to the detriment of the British. Moreover, if the French insist on the maximum allowance of submarines Britain will, as settled some time ago, announce that she holds herself free to build to the absolute limit in chasers and all kinds of submarine defence devices. The British are most anxious to have the matter discussed entirely on its own merits; but it is understood that the United States does not admit the weakness of their own case, as upholders of disarmament, in advocating the preservation of the worst form of naval warfare. Considering that the United States and France both had days specially of their own in the plenary sessions, it will be only fair if Britain should have the same – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 21st December 1921, page 6 Washington, December 20 – The Italians tonight issued a statement reiterating that they would not retire from their position of wanting a navy on an equality with that of France. With that proviso they would agree to a navy of any size compatible with national security – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 21st December 1921, page 6 GENERAL SMUTS ON EMPIRE PROBLEMS Cape Town, December 20 – Speaking at the opening of the National Provincial Congress of the South African Party General Smuts SMUTS, Jan (1870 – 1950). South African statesman. He served twice as prime minister of the Union of South Africa (1919 – 1924; 1939 – 1948). From 1917 to 1919 he was also one of the members of the British Imperial War Cabinet, and he was instrumental in the founding of what became the Royal Air Force (RAF). He originally advocated racial segregation and opposed the enfranchisement of black Africans, but his views changed and he backed the Fagan Commission's findings that complete segregation was impossible. He was appointed as a field marshal in the British Army in 1941. He lost the 1948 election to hard-line nationalists who institutionalised apartheid. A statue to commemorate him was erected in London's Parliament Square. referred to the Washington Conference. He said that, having secured the right of the Dominions to their own representation in future, there would be no question about status at all. An inducement to the Dominions to cut the painter and to become republics was absolutely removed. Ireland was now being added to the lists of Dominions. This entirely refuted the idea of the dissolution of the Empire which had been voiced on the Continent lately. He looked forward to a brilliant future for the Empire. He felt that a change would come for mankind. Next year would be a year of progress and prosperity. He emphasised the seriousness of the Indian question in South Africa, and urged the necessity of finding a solution which would save the Empire from serious injury – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 21st December 1921, page 8 GERMAN REPARATIONS London, December 20 – M. Briand and Mr Lloyd George have opened conversations at Downing street. It is understood that they discussed generally the economic position of Europe deluding Russia, and the reparations question. Subsequently a- number of matters were referred to experts for examination. It is believed that the conference will develop into the most important since that held at Versailles, and it may possibly lead to a European pact similar to the Washington Pact. It is regarded as significant that Herr Rathenau arrived today at Mr Lloyd George’s invitation and is staying in the same hotel as M. Briand, ready to be called in when wanted – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 21st December 1921, page 9 London, December 20 – The allied experts supplied the two Prime Ministers with information on the questions which were submitted yesterday. The experts previously heard Herr Rathenau on the economic conditions in Germany. It is contended by Great Britain that the sum paid by Germany for the upkeep' of the British Amy on the Rhine does not meet the total expenditure, and the experts were asked to ascertain what Germany could pay in this respect. An official communique says that the conference considered the question of reparations, and examined the erudition of the German resources which are available for meeting the obligations. Consideration was also given to the means of improving the general economic conditions in Europe – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Wednesday 21st December 1921, page 9 DRUGS AND THE DRUG HABIT The medical correspondent of the ‘Daily Telegraph' writes: “Of all the chains with which humanity voluntarily binds itself none are stronger than the habit of taking certain drugs. It is for psychologists to ponder on these mysterious workings of the will by which it gradually surrenders that supreme gift of evolution which we call inhibition. Of the animal kingdom, certainly, man nevertheless is greater than all animals as such in that he possesses a power of saying "No." Possibly in come lower types voluntary inhibition exists in rudiment, but it is in man alone that it has been greatly developed. Yet it is this priceless distinction, this guiding factor, in his daily life that is surrendered by these who become caught by the lure of stimulants and narcotics. “For the medical man the problem is very difficult; he sees the thing at a disease of the mind leading to lira wreckage of the body. In the victims of the drug habit the doctor is mainly concerned with an endeavour, to maintain the failing physical functions whilst seeking where he can to find a means of strengthening the weakened will. But it cannot be said that the treatment of the menial and physical disorder associated with drug taking is particularly successful today in spite of all Ike efforts. “As is well known, many drug takers become addicted to both morphine and cocaine. It is the cuts of these things that the more they are relied on the more do they torment their devotees into a craving for more varied stimulus. “We make a mistake in glossing over the horrors of such situations as these unhappy members of society fall into, for time "after time the first stops are taken in ignorance of what may follow. True enough, everyone knows that certain drugs are dangerous things, but ignorance of their terrible capacity for getting hold of certain temperaments is essentially prevalent to-day. In spite of all that has been written on the subject, and of the miserable tragedies related in the paper; at various times, there are many who believe themselves beyond the reach of drug fascination, but it is a fact that in this matter “he that thought he stood should take great heed lest ha fall.” The dread possibilities of drug misuse cannot be too widely known. Illnesses, great or small, come to most households, and domestic remedies will always be with us; but everyone should make it a definite inks of life never to resort to opium, morphine, cocaine, or any strong sedative or stimulant drug except under immediate medical supervision. it is a curious thing, though apparently true enough, that a drug given by a doctor can be left off much more readily at his direction than when it is taken without advice. “The new regulations which have just come into force are undoubtedly a step in the right direction, and it is to be hoped that they will do much to minimise the unrestricted use of dangerous drugs. It is possible that they may be found to hamper medical men unnecessarily in their daily practice; but if so, possibly minor modifications can be made to avoid this without in the least lessening the safeguards they provide for the public” – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Thursday 22nd December 1921, page 5 AMERICAN SOLDIERS New York, December 20 – The Washington correspondent states that former servicemen, testifying in regard to Senator Watson’s charges of illegal executions of soldiers in France, swore that they had seen numerous soldiers hanged without trial. Officers shot down men during petty quarrels or sent them without gas masks into battle. One soldier testified that he saw twelve executions in one camp, and that he could produce twenty-eight comrades to corroborate this statement – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Thursday 22nd December 1921, page 6 PLACE IN PACIFIC “We are heartily congratulating ourselves on the four-nations’ pact or Quadruple Treaty regarding the Pacific Islands,” said a well-informed Japanese visitor in conversation with a representative of the Wellington ‘Times.’ For half an hour he discussed, in a thoughtful mood, Japan’s present problems regarding international relations, foreign trade, domestic prosperity, and social conditions. The visitor was Mr S. Tsuji, who has come to Now Zealand on a double-headed mission—to effect local agency arrangements for the now Japanese round-the Pacific cargo service of the Yamashita Steamship Company and purchase of wool for Japan. “I know that public opinion in Japan was fully in favour of disarmament for a long time before the Washington Conference was mooted, A few months before the conference was opened! a representative of the Common House (similar to the House of Representatives) toured Japan and took a vote of the people on the question of disarmament. The vote showed that 95 per cent, of our people favoured disarmament. I was personally of the opinion that Japan would gratefully accept an American proposal, from the standpoint of our mutual interests in the Pacific and the welfare of the Pacific in general; moreover, from the wider point of view of the words ‘permanent peace.' ” Mr Tsuji was asked what the effect would be on Japanese opinion of the determining of the Anglo-Japanese Alliance, which would attend the ratification by the signatory Governments of the Pacific pact, “Opinion is strongly in favour of terminating the-alliance,” he answered. “Great Britain and Japan cannot have a separate alliance regarding the East so far as America is concerned. But it is my personal opinion again that the treaty will be a prolongation of the alliance we have had with Great Britain for so many years and for so much national benefit for each other.” The visitor would not express an opinion in regard to China’s twenty-one demands, frankly confessing that he had not yet had time to examine them in the light of more recent developments between China and Japan. He reiterated, however, the expression of official opinion in Tokin and Washington that the settlement of such debatable questions ns the Shantung Bail way and development in Manchuria and Siberia would be amicable, and that any “acquirements” would be internationally legitimate. “They are not based on Japanese idea' or opinions.” said Mr Tsuji, referring the fears expressed by a section of the Australian Press that the new pact may not ensure the Commonwealth against a peaceful occupation by Japanese immigration. “We have less than 4.000 Japanese in Australia, and the bulk of these are in the Northern Territory, where they settled in accordance with the Australian law. The Japanese in Australia are growing less in numbers—there are only eighty in Sydney now—and this is the ease with Japanese in other parts of the world. The Japanese does not stay away from home long. His ambition is to earn as much as he can, and he works very hard, so that his return may be hastened.” Mr Tsuji did not place much personal belief in the suggestion reported in the cables that the Japanese Government was contemplating a scheme of emigration to South America. He did not think the scheme would secure official sanction, as it was in sharp contrast to past practise. The visitor is a comparatively young man, who speaks English perfectly' – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 23rd December 1921, page 2 SUPREME COUNCIL TO MEET London, December 21 – The Downing Street Conference decided to summon the Supreme Council for the first week in January at Cannes, whither Mr Lloyd George will go in the middle of next week – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 23rd December 1921, page 4 EUROPEAN RECONSTRUCTION London, December 22 – It is semi – officially stated M. Briand and Mr Lloyd George arrived at a satisfactory understanding on all points, and that they are in complete accord on the points that the stable European Powers should lead a movement for European Reconstruction. A common line of action has been agreed upon. Both ministers have undertaken to confer with the leading businessmen and financiers on the subject forthwith, also to hold a joint meeting of British and French businessmen in Paris next week. The Supreme Council Meeting at Cannes will probably summon a European Economic Conference – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Evening Star (Otago, NZ), Friday 23rd December 1921, page 4 FRANCE ON SUBMARINE QUESTION Washington, December 22 – The difficulty in understanding the French tactics may be due to the personal feeling of Mss. De Bon and Sarraut, who are known to be sore because Judge C. Hughes has taken the matter over their heads, direct to M. Briand, or it may mean that they are anxious to have Britain defeated by the other nations in the matter of the abolition of submarines, with France leading that defeat. Then, they imagine, they would be in a position to dictate their own terms to the conference. It is evident they still misunderstand the temper of the delegates, which is crystallising strongly against the French attitude. One effect of their retraction of M. Briand's oiler to withdraw the battleship demand will be to further lengthen the conference, as they show no signs of any attempt to compromise the whole of this morning's proceedings were practically taken up by M. De Bon re-arguing Franco's case. It is apparent that the French delegation have put their own construction on M. Briand's letter to Judge Hughes, maintaining that M. Briand means that the withdrawal of the capital ships claims is conditional upon France's views on the submarine question being met. Essentially, these views are that France should not be limited in any direction whatever regarding the building of auxiliary craft including submarines. If, however, the conference decides on such a limitation, then France wants the right to build as much as any nation. M. Sarraut said he was sorry they had not a better message to bring to the conference, but he admitted that he was still waiting for further instructions from Paris. The matter was thereupon adjourned – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Saturday 24th December 1921, page 2 THE RULES OF WAR Washington, December 22 –It is not known that efforts were made at this conference to force a committee to revise all the rules of warfare, as well as the submarine conduct, but they were abandoned because all the nations in the world were not represented here. It is stated -that the American experts reported against the abolition of gas as a weapon on the ground that it was just as humane as shells. Aerial warfare is being considered to-day by a subcommittee, and the rules may eventually be laid down at a fall conference of all the Powers, for naval warfare, including the barring of merchantmen arming, even for defence. All attention today is focused of the meeting of the full committee on naval matters. M. De Bon will first present the case for the French, urging the need for greatly increased tonnage of auxiliary craft and submarine. He will be asked to give adequate reasons for his assertions, and will probably lay a complete statement before the committee, though this is improbable at this stage. If time permits, Britain will present the ease for the abolition of submarines. Lord Lee will base his arguments on war experience, pointing out as one of the chief arguments that the submarine did not prove an efficient weapon of defence except in the early period of the war and that afterwards warships were able to wombat them successfully, upon which the Germans used sub marines against defenceless merchantmen. Similar tactics, he will urge, can be expected from any nation driven to desperation and it is impossible to control the use of submarines by the ordinary rule, of warfare. It is evident that the British are hopeless about carrying their point completely at this Conference, though their action will have a powerful effect on public opinion, and will lay the foundations tor a reversal of the decision at some future conference: but their attitude may have the effect of inducing a curtailment of tonnage below Mr Hughes's original proposals. It is hinted that Mr Hughes has already open this aspect of the case with M. Briand direct, after the receipt of M. Briand's first letter. Italy has definitely ranged herself against Britain in the matter of the abolition of submarines, though she is willing to take as low a tonnage as possible so long as it is equal to that of France, and will also then confine functions parch to defensive purposes. Italy argues that surface craft can act as brutally as submarines: it all depends on the character of the commander and tic orders he receives – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Saturday 24th December 1921, page 2 ZAGHLUL PASHA Cairo, December 22 – The situation is developing favourably to Zaghlul Pasha, with a corresponding weakening of the moderate influence, owing to the failure of the Anglo-Egyptian negotiations. The Sultan has hitherto not accepted the resignation of the Premier, Adly Pasha, who persists in declaring that he will participate in the Government. The political deadlock therefore continues. Addressing students at the Saidieh Secondary School, who are striking, Zaghlul Pasha advocated non-cooperation, on the lines of Gandhism. A later message states that the military authorities have forbidden the Nationalist leader, Zaghlul Pasha, to in any wise participate in politics and ordered him, with eight of his most prominent supporters, to return to. their villages. The orders were disobeyed, hence they leave under military escort early on Friday. Excited crowds gathered in the vicinity of Zaghlul's house and elsewhere. Two demonstrators were killed and six winded by gunshot in collisions with the police – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Saturday 24th December 1921, page 2 THE WORLD’S MOTOR CARS Paris – According to statics published by Le Matin there are 10’922,278 moto cars in the world at present, 83 per cent of this number being in the United States, or one for eleven persons of the population. Great Britain heads the European list with 42,000 motors cars, or one for every 110 persons. France has 202,500, or one for every205 of its inhabitants. Siberia has one motor car for every 250,000 inhabitants – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Saturday 24th December 1921, page 4 JAPANESE GOODS BOYCOTTED [IN INDIA] Washington – Natives of India, who are campaigning for independence from British rule, have added a boycott of Japanese goods to that of British imports to arouse public opinion in Japan to break off the Anglo – Japanese Alliance, and so weaken Great Britain’s influence in Asia. Announcement of this latest developments in the Hindus’ fight for independence was made here in a statement issued by Saliendra N. Gohse, National Director of the American Commission to promote self – government in India, discussing the foreign policy of the representations of India insofar as it affects the coming conference on limitation of Armaments and Far Eastern questions – Feilding Star (Manawatu, NZ), Saturday 24th December 1921, page 4 60,000-TON LIMIT ON SUBMARINES PROPOSED BY SECRETARY HUGHES; JAPAN REFUSES TO ACCEPT CUT The United States has again struck a heavy blow for the reduction of naval armament. Secretary Hughes, abandoning the original American proposal for submarine tonnage, which would have given the United States and Britain each 90,000 tons of the undersea craft, Japan 54.000 yesterday proposed to the committee on limitation of armaments of the Washington conference that the submarine tonnage of the United States and Great Britain be 60,000 and that the tonnage of Japan. France and Italy remain practically what is today. Secretary Hughes gave the present tonnage of Japan as 31,452; France, 31,391 and Italy somewhat less than 21,000 tons. U.S should scrap 35,000 tons This would mean a drastic cut, the scrapping thousands of tons of American and British submarines. The United States would reduce its submarines by some 35,000 tons (when the total of the built and building is considered) and Great Britain would give up approximately 22.464 tons, her present submarine tonnage being 82.464. The submarine proposal of the United States gives to the world a clear idea of the consistency and earnestness of the plea of this country for a real reduction in naval armament. Secretary Hughes' proposal was made at a time when Great Britain's suggestion that the submarine be utterly wiped out had been rejected by at least three of the powers at tending the conference, and when France was understood to be about to propose a very great increase in her own submarine tonnage. Like the original proposal of the United States with regard to capital ships, the proposal of Secretary Hughes with regard to submarines is clear cut and generous. In accord with Britain Great Britain, it was stated on high authority last night, has ranged herself on the side of the United States in this matter of the reduction of submarine tonnage. Italy also accepts the proposal, but with a reservation that her sub marine tonnage be made equal to that of France, on the ground that she must equal in naval strength another Mediterranean power. Senator Schanzer, head of the Italian delegation, replying to the Hughes’ proposal, said in part: “Although our naval technical authorities believe that the allotment of submarine tonnage should not necessarily be proportionate to that of capital ships, and that the quota of 31,500 tons for submarines, corresponding to the American proposal of a tonnage of 175.000 in capital ships, is not sufficient, the Italian delegation is ready in the interest of reduction or armaments, to accept this amount, under the condition of parity with France”. Japan makes demand Japan, on the other hand, has come forward with a demand that she be given the 54,000 tons or submarines which she was accorded in the original American proposal, announced by Secretary Hughes for the three great naval powers on the opening day of the conference. Japan insists that 54.000 tons is the minimum which she can accept that she is willing to adhere to the original 5-5-3 ratio for both capital ships and auxiliary tonnage in other words, that she will accept the proposal that the United States shall have 90.000 tons of submarines the British 90,000, and the Japanese 54,000 tons. But Japan has not indicated up to last night, that she would accept the proposed reduction of the United States and Great Britain to 60,000 tons, with a proportionate reduction for Japan. France, from which the only suggestion regarding submarines so far has come in a speech before the committee on Friday by Admiral de Bon, who said that 90.000 tons was the minimum that a naval power could be expected to agree to, has declared that she must await instructions from Paris. Must await instructions M. Sarraut, head of the French delegation in the absence of Premier Briand and M. Viviani. stated: “That in view of the fact that the new American proposal contemplated a considerable reduction in the submarine tonnage which appeared necessary to the French government, the French delegation could do no other wise than await instructions”. And so the conference committee adjourned until Tuesday at 11 a.m. Japan's rejection of the proposal to cut her submarine tonnage below the 4.000 mark, unless it should be modified – and there was no indication last night that it would be modified – will mean the defeat of the American proposal to reduce radically the submarine tonnage of the powers. The Washington conference is not governed by majority action. All of its decisions must be unanimous to be effective. May revert to 90,000 tons Unless the Hughes proposal of yesterday with regard to submarines is accepted, it is expected the American delegation will revert to its original proposal of 90,000 tons for the United States and Great Britain and 54,000 for Japan, and proportionate tonnage for France and Italy. But France, it is said, will ask for a very considerable increase in submarine tonnage, perhaps as high as 90,000 in that event, which would upset that proposal, for it is not expected that Great Britain and the other powers will agree to France's having such a large submarine tonnage. The submarine question has become a serious tangle, it was admitted last night by a high American authority in conference circles. So much so that the conference may eventually have to go ahead without fixing submarine tonnage for the various nations represented here, but agreeing to capital ship tonnage and perhaps some of the auxiliary tonnage other than submarines. Discussions brought to close The discussion in committee of Great Britain's proposal for the abolition of the submarine was brought to a close when Secretary Hughes offered the American proposal for a limitation of submarine tonnage. It is expected, however, that the British will ask to have their day in an open session of the Washington conference, so that the British plan may have wider circulation among the peoples of the world. It is their hope to build up sentiment against the submarine that in the end will bring about its elimination. Mr. Hanihara of the Japanese delegation stated the Japanese position on the proposal of Secretary Hughes to limit the submarine tonnage still further. He said: “The Japanese delegation hoped that it had made clear, at the time when the provisional agreement was reached between the United States, Great Britain and Japan on the question of the capital ship ratio, that the acceptance by Japan of the ratio of 5-5-3 meant for Japan a considerable sacrifice. Yet because of her desire to contribute toward the achievement of the great object for which the conference had been called Japan finally accepted the said ratio under various great difficulties. In the same manner Japan was prepared to accept the same ratio in regard to submarines. That would have given Japan 54.000 tons. So far as Japan is concerned this figure was considered as the minimum amount of submarine tonnage with which the insular position of Japan could be adequately defended”. Felt constrained to insist “The new proposal was to allow the United States and Great Britain 60.000 tons each, while France, Italy and Japan were to maintain the status quo in regard to their respective submarine tonnage. In other words, under this new plan, Japan would be allowed to have only 31,000 tons. That was considered by the Japanese delegation to be wholly inadequate for Japan’s defensive purposes. “The Japanese delegation, therefore, felt constrained to insist upon the assignment of the tonnage proposed in the original American project, e., 54,000 tons of submarines." The statement of the Japanese case was made at the afternoon session of the committee yesterday, held within two hours of the time when Secretary Hughes made his proposal at the morning session. He insisted that the demand of Japan for a minimum of 54,000 tons was made only for defence. "Japan," he said, "was geographically so remotely situated that it must be evident to all that her submarines could not constitute a menace against any nation". See opposition to proposal Notwithstanding this statement on the part of Mr. Hanihara, it is not believed that Great Britain and the United States will agree to Japan's having 54.000 tons of submarines if they are to reduce their own tonnage to 60,000. Much of the morning session yesterday was given over to the discussion of the British proposal for the abolition of submarines. It was opened by M. Sarraut for the French delegation, who pointed out that there are countries not represented at the Washington conference which would not be governed by a decision reached here to abolish the submarine. He said, too, that some of the other nations believe in the submarine as a weapon of defence, and that it would scarcely be fair to them for the nations gathered here to seek to lay down a decision regarding the submarine without even consulting them. Balfour makes argument Mr. Balfour, head of the British delegation, made a final argument for the British contention that the submarine was not a weapon of defence and had been proved to be no such weapon, but a weapon of offense (merely against merchant vessels) in the war with Germany. Secretary Hughes, speaking for the American delegation, said that the discussion of the British proposal had proceeded to a point where it was clear that it was not possible to reach an agreement to abolish the submarine. He praised highly the British presentation of the case against the submarine. He said he had conferred with President Harding regarding the matter and that the President had been deeply impressed with the strength of the arguments presented by the British and the spirit animating them. "If at any time it were found to be feasible to take the matter up the United States government would give it their most serious-consideration”, said Secretary Hughes. He added that he hoped, what had been said here would be provocative of thought throughout the entire world – By G. Gould Lincoln – Evening Star (Washington D.C, USA), Sunday 25th December 1921, page 1 and 4 DANIELS SEES U – BOAT AS MENACE TO ARMS MEETING Raleigh, N.C, December 26 – Josephus Daniels, former Secretary of the Navy, made this comment to the International News Service today on the Armament Conference now in progress in Washington: “I believe that any reduction of armament that leaves navies free to build a larger number of submarines will be a lame and impotent conclusion” – The Washington Times (Washington D.C, USA), Monday 26th December 1921, page 1 NO BRITISH EMPIRE IN 100 YEARS, WELLS HOPE London, December 26 – “I hope and believe that 100 years hence there will be no British Empire. Either it will have played its part in the development of civilisation and have changed into and given place to a much larger union of free states, or it will have become a danger and a nuisance to mankind, and have followed German imperialism and Roman imperialism to the dust heap”. This is H.G Wells’ opinion of the British Empire a hundred years hence. It was read as a message from him at a dinner given by the Delphian Coterie, when the subject in consideration was the Empire a hundred years hence – The Washington Times (Washington D.C, USA), Monday 26th December 1921, page 1 SOUTH IRELAND SHOWN AS FAVOURING THE TREATY Dublin, December 26 – There is a lull today in the activities of the members of Dail Eireann over the Christmas holiday. They have been busy canvassing the sentiment of the Irish electorate regarding ratification of the treaty. It is understood most of South Ireland favours ratification – The Washington Times (Washington D.C, USA), Monday 26th December 1921, page 1 [GERMAN] REPARATIONS Berlin, December 24 – The Government has deferred its reply to the Reparation Commission’s Note, pending Rathenau’s return from London, but it is semi –officially stated there cannot be any question of Allied control of the finances in Germany, which would be an infringement of her independence – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Tuesday 27th December 1921, page 5 COMMUNIST PLOT [IN BRITAIN] London, December 24 – Scotland Yard, which has been aware of a plot on the part of Communists to raid bans and West End shops during the height of Christmas shopping, today took special measures to cope with disorder. A large force of mounted police was held in readiness. The Communists planned that a force of 500 should march from the West District to Oxford Street, thence to Picadilly as the objective. Leaders ordered their followers who possessed the arms to use them without hesitation, in order to scare the populace, but the police measures overawed them and the afternoon passed without incidents – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Tuesday 27th December 1921, page 5 EGYPT [INDEPENDENCE] Cairo, December 24 – British troops are proceeding to the suburb of Giza, where the mob is attacking the Government offices. Troops have also been dispatched to Taoah, which is unsettled. Leafleats have been distributed at Alexandria inciting the people to insurrection, concluding “Long live Zaghloul”. A tour of Cairo discloses evidences of previous trouble. Lamp posts have been torn down in some streets and flames are issuing from the broken pipes. Many missiles are lying about. A barricade of trees has been erected in one street. The streets are now fairly empty. French newspapers protest against attacks on French shops, as only damaging Egypt’s cause – Reuter’s Telegram – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Tuesday 27th December 1921, page 5 Cairo, December 23 – British military parties have taken control and the situation appears well in hand. Zaghoul Pasha was taken to Suez in a motor car under escort. The authorities are acting vigorously, determined to supress any possible trouble. Six of Zaghoul Pasha’s supporters have been arrested. Three refused to obey the order to return to their villages and three have not yet replied and have been allowed a few hours to make up their minds. Two demonstrators were killed by gunshots. All is quiet in the provinces – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Nelson Evening Mail (Nelson, NZ), Tuesday 27th December 1921, page 5 EX – EMPRESS ZITA DUE TO REACH BERN JANUARY 8th Bern, December 28 – Former Empress Zita of Austria – Hungary is expected to arrive in Switzerland about January 8, coming by way of Paris from the island of Madeira, where she and former Emperor Charles are exiled. Zita is going to Zurich under special permission of the Allied Council of Ambassadors and the Swiss Government in order to be present when an operation is performed on her son Robert. It is said that she may take two of her children back to Madeira with her – Associated Press – The Evening World (New York, USA), Wednesday 28th December 1921, page 2 LEAGUE SUGGESTS POPE CHANGE RULE ON WINE Declaring that the Pope could, if he wished, make the use of unfermented wine for sacramental purpose, perfectly proper in Catholic churches, William H. Anderson has issued a statement in which he says that the anti – Saloon League’s attitude is that the matter should be left for the voluntary decision of each denomination. The statement says: “If the churches which use intoxicating wine for sacramental purposes could see their way clear to adopt something else, it would facilitate the carrying out of the policy adopted by the nation and would help prevent violent of the law by unprincipled persons who seek shelter behind some religious rite” – The Evening World (New York, USA), Wednesday 28th December 1921, page 2 GERMAN HEROES MADE FOR ABOUT 15 CENTS Berlin, December 28 – For thirty marks – little over 15 cents – you can be a German war hero. Applications were pouring into nationalist press bureaus today for the German Honour Memorial Medal of the World War, offered by press organs to all those who supply the following recommendation: “I herewith declare that I tried during the war and hence to the best of my knowledge and conscience to do my duty for the German Fatherland. I agree that the contempt of all respectable Germans shall reach me if this is untrue”. The applications were mostly from women – The Evening World (New York, USA), Wednesday 28th December 1921, page 4 BERLIN RANKS HIGH AS DIAMOND MARKET Berlin, December 28 – Berlin’s diamond bourse, which was established a year ago to stabilise traffic in precious stones, has done an enormous business, according to a report just issued. The report shows a substantial increase in business despite the loss of South African raw materials, and claims that Berlin is becoming recognised as a strong competitor of Antwerp and Amsterdam in this field. According to the report 2’000,000 Dutch guilders and 5’000,000 French francs have passed through the Reichsbank to cover turnovers of the house. Four times this amount has passed through other banks, the Government collection 200,000 Deutsche marks on 13’500,000 marks’ worth of business done by four foreigners in eight weeks alone – Associated Press – The Evening World (New York, USA), Wednesday 28th December 1921, page 4 JAPAN AT WASHINGTON Tokyo, December 28 – In the Diet the opposition party opened an attack on the Government over the Washington Conference results, but they failed to arouse popular interest. The first move was a resolution from the Independents denouncing the delegates for not securing the popular views of Japan before entering into agreements so far as the Conference was concerned. The new Premier, Viscount Takahashi, appears safe, but he lacks the late Mr Hara’s political skill. Some believe that he may fail on domestic issues – Reuter’s Telegram – Star (Christchurch, NZ), Thursday 29th December 1921, page 7 Tokyo, December 28 – Cabinet discussed the question of the inclusion of Japan proper within the scope of the Pacific Treaty. A division of opinion resulted in the question being referred to the Diplomatic Advisory Council. This question is exciting small comment so far and the public are apparently indifferent – Reuter’s Telegram – Star (Christchurch, NZ), Thursday 29th December 1921, page 7 NO PROSPECT OF AGREEMENT Washington, December 28 – At their meeting today American delegates made a definite statement that there was absolutely no prospect of agreement on the submarine issue. The French would acquiesce in the capital ships ratio but refused to entertain anything like Mr Hughes’ figures on submarines. If this is correct, it presages an early wind up of the Conference. Britain will stand out for no limitation the building of auxiliary crafts, but there may be some agreement concerning the size of cruisers and also on the question of aircraft carriers, but the restriction of submarines to purely military uses will not come up. The prospect of another conference are still vague – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Star (Christchurch, NZ), Thursday 29th December 1921, page 7 ECONOMIC EXPERTS BEGIN WORK Paris, December 30 – Economic experts of Britain and France met here today to begin work on the financial rebuilding of Europe. The French delegation, headed by M. Loucheur, Minister of Liberated Regions, met Sir Laming Worthington – Evans and other British delegates for a preliminary exchange of views. It was announced that the conference will refrain from discussions of the German Reparation question – The Evening World (New York, USA), Friday 30th December 1921, page 4 READY TO DISCUSS USE OF SUBMARINES Paris, December 30 – The French Government will be glad to discuss the status of submarines with reference to merchant shipping as well as to the humanitarian bearing of their use, it was said in official circles here today. Regulation of the uses of these ships might, it was added, affect the question of tonnage issues but the question of the status must come first. It was pointed out in these quarters, with reference to the tonnage issues that France, included her colonies, has a coastline of 15,000 miles to defend, while the U.S, including Alaska, has about 11,000 – Associated Press – The Evening World (New York, USA), Friday 30th December 1921, page 5 ALL BUT FRENCH AGREE TO LIMIT AUXILIARY CRAFT Washington, December 30 – The American proposal for the limitation of auxiliary naval craft to a maximum of 10,000 tonnes displacement was understood to have been virtually agreed upon at the session today of the Arms Conference Naval Committee. All delegations accepted the proposal except the French, who, while holding formal approval in abeyance, said such approval was expected. All delegations, however, were understood to have given their assent to the additional provision of the American proposal that the guns of auxiliary craft be limited to eight inches. Members of the Sub – Committee on Aviation decided to abandon any effort to limit the airplane strength of the powers and to recommend instead that an attempt be made to agree on restrictions that would make air warfare conform with considerations of humanity. The French representatives on the sub – committee were understood to have opposed strongly limitation of airplane strength and to have finally carried their point. When the subject of limitation of naval airplane carriers is reached, it is stated that the British will propose the application of a definite ratio, as in the case of capital ships. The British are said to be ready to propose an allowance of 5 – 5 – 3 – 2 – 2, which, translated, means that Great Britain and America each have a ratio of five, that Japan will have a ratio of three and France and Italy will each have a ratio of two. The British proposal also contemplates a maximum size of these ships of 25,000 tonnes. If the British tonnes are meant by this then the ships will correspond practically in size with the maximum proposed by the American delegation, which was 27,000 tonnes, American measurement – Associated Press – The Evening World (New York, USA), Friday 30th December 1921, page 5 FRANCE AND SUBMARINE There will be general disappointed at the obdurancy of France in regard to the abolition of submarine fleets. Britain’s magnificent offer to the Washington Conference to scrap the whole of her underwater boats of the other nations would do the same, demonstrated her bona – fides in connection with the matter; but the attitude of France has made an agreement impossible. Thus we have the ugly fact that France, our recognised friend and ally, has prevented the full consummation of our hopes and has committed the world to a competition in the construction of auxiliary craft, though an agreement has been reached concerning the building of capital ships. While we ought to be thankful for what has been accomplished, it is very regrettable that it has been largely nullified by the ill – advised action of our nearest neighbour. As we pointed out previously, if the achievements at Washington are to successful there must be mutual confidence and goodwill. Without these deliberations and agreements of the Conference must be of non – effect. Mr Balfour spoke strongly and straightly in condemnation of the decision of France, and despite M. Sarraut ‘s protestations, an uneasy feeling has been aroused that France is considering a potential enemy, and the query immediately presents itself as to what enemy will be. Therefore, none of the Powers can afford to take risks. Thus France has committed the European Powers to a further competition in armaments, probably not in capital ships, but in auxiliary craft, for as Mr Hughes pointed out, the building of submarines will entail the construction of antisubmarine tonnage, and it will be extremely difficult to draw the line in these. The worst feature of the business is not the decision to build submarines, but the feeling of distrust and suspicion behind that decision, and which, if persisted in, must eventually render the good work accomplished at Washington abortive. The representatives of the nations cannot but be disappointed at the spirit displayed by France both in regard to land armaments and auxiliary warships. Had she been a little more compromising in these matters the whole world would have rejoiced – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Saturday 31st December 1921, page 4 CONSTITUTION OF CHINA Pekin, December 29 – General Chang Tso Lin. Military Governor of Manchuria, who took a leading part in forming the Government under Liang-Shin-Yi, has issued a statement that government by Occidental constitutions was a failure. “Therefore,” it proceeds, “we propose to assemble a Parliament and form a new constitution suited to the temperament of the people. Unity has been impossible, because officialdom has been corrupt and lacking the confidence of the provinces. The native press is preparing a campaign for presentation next year, with Hsu Shi Chang as President and myself as vice – President”. The entire Chinese press is also exhorting the Chinese delegation at Washington to insist that the conference shall discuss China’s 21 demands, The American Legation has formally protested to the Government against the presence in Pekin of General Ghing Yao, the former military governor of the Hunan Province, whose troops killed Mr Reimcrt, an American millionaire, in June, 1920. The Legation pointed out that former demands for the punishment of Ghing Yao brought no result. It is asking the Government now to lake action. This is embarrassing the Government, since Ghing Yao is one of the followers of Chang Tso Lin, and the latter, who helped to form the new Government, is protecting Ghing Yao from arrest – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Saturday 31st December 1921, page 5 RECONSTRUCTING EUROPE Paris, December 30 – The Premier, M. Briand, speaking in the Senate on the reconstruction of Europe, said Russia must not he neglected and must not be allowed to fall under the economic control and subsequent political control of Germany. “We decided in London”, he 'said, “that the task could only be accomplished by a Franco-British agreement, with a subsequent agreement by all the Allies, the matter will he fully discussed at Cannes, where America will participate in the discussion” – Australian and New Zealand Cable Association – Waikato Times (Waikato, NZ), Saturday 31st December 1921, page 5 ECEMBER 1921 85