PEACE CONGRESS

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 103, 25 January 1919, Page 7

PEACE CONGRESS

RUSSIA THE ABSORBING

PROBLEM

THE TIDE OF BOLSHEVISM \

COULD BE STEMMED WITH . OPPORTUNE HELP

By Telegraph—rrces Association—Copyright

London, January 21

f'he "Evening Standard's" correspondent at Paris says that Russia provides the most absorbing problem at the Peace Conference. Many delegates, who are deeply, concerned, consider that Russia should be represented. Though a number of distinguished Russians are present in Paris, it is felt that if they alone are consulted it will arm tho Bolsheviki with .fresh arguments with which to appeal to their countrymen, especially .the peasants. One difficulty is that of communication, but a wireless appeal could be sent all over the world, and this could be intercepted by Bolsheviki, and might assist in assuring them that Mio Conference genuinely desires real. Russian representation. It lis understood that the British. delegates favoured such an appeal, nut it f was not adopted: because some delegates still refuse to have dealings, with the Bolsheviki yet. It is felt tliat the present position is intolerable. It. is gonerally agreed that it would be hazardous to take any action resembling interference, yet delay by assisting to increase disorder, is likely to render intervention necessary. The important thing is to got a strong, stable Government established.

Tile "Matin" states that M. Noulens's statement to the Conference em-: pliasised two points: First, cannot be any jicace with Bolshevism; second, Bolshevism, like German Imperialism, threatens all civilised States, unless strangled betimes. M. . Noulens feiirs that the westward' advance of tlio Bolsheviki army will cause widespread risings in Poland, Germany, and Hungary, where conditions are ripe for Bolshevism,' thus threatening Western civilisation. Large forces would not be'required to stem the invasion if steps were taken early. M. Noillens estimates that the Bolsheviki possess 450,000 troops, of poor quality, and 1500 guns; but there is a shortage of shells. - There are strong anti-Bolshevik forces to the northward and eastward, but little opposition in ■Poland and tlio Baltic/provinces. Limited, but opportune help, ho considers, would soon stem the tide and eventually crush Bolshevism.—Aus.-N.Z, Cable Assn. _. . . DIFFICULTIES OF THE SITUATION • LESSENED . (Rec. January, 25, 1.45 a.m.) London, January 22. The Paris* correspondents _ lengthily discuss the Conference's attitude towards Russia. They consider the difficulties .-ar.e lessened . owing to the .' likeliliood of the . establishment-, of a stable Government in Berlin as tho result of the elections. Probably the Allies' first aim will be to place'effective barrier-buffer States against the westward advance of the Bolshevists. • Tho correspondents are generally agreed that the overthrow of the' German extremists will facilitate Allied aid to' Poland, and also assist iu the task of feeding the Central Powers. It will soon be possible to allow Germany and Austria to purchase food abroad. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. MR. LLOYI) GEORGE'S PROPOSAL. (Rec.. January 25,, 0,25 a.nv.) London, January 22. It is understood that Mr. Lloyd George did not propose that Lenin and Trotsky should sit at the Peace Conference, hut that all sections of Rus-sian-opinion should 1 bo invited to Paris to express their, views.—Aus.-N.Z Cable' Assn. SOLUTION OF THE BOLSHEVIK ■ DANGER. ; New York, January 21. The Paris correspondent of the_"New York Evening' Sun" says there is now less feqr of the spread of Bolshevism in .Europe. -The Moderates' success in tho German elections, the compromise'in Poland, and the. probable settlement of tho Russian' question seem to have solved the Bolshevik danger.— Aus.'-N.Z.' Cable Assn. CONFERENCE'S DECISION APPROVED BY'JIB. GOMPERS. . New York, January 23. Mr. Samuel Gompers, President of the American Federation of Labour, approves of the Paris Conference's decision in reference to Russia.— N.Z. Cable Assn. the questionlflntervention VIE-AVS OF THE GREAT POWERS. (Rec. January 24,, 11 p.m.) London, January 22. The "Morning Post's" Paris correspondent summarises the Great Powers' views on tho question of Russian intervention. France is perfectly ready to assist with, material, but'not with men. Britain is understood to favour intervention/ on the. Caspian Sea. Italy is not against intervention, but gives no indication of the method. President Wilson always hoped that Bolshevism would ultimately work out its own salvation. Japan will restrict her interests in Siberia. It is for the Conference to harmonise-these conflicting views The delegates are heartily tired -of tho discussion of barren questions of procedure. The cumbrous composition of tlio Conference must have pleased the people beyond the Rhine, hut it does not conduce to the 'rapid dispatch of business. —Aus.N.Z. Cable Assn. EASTERN EUROPE MISSION TO INQUIRE- INTO SITUATION. (Rec. January 24, 7.35 p.m.) Paris, January 22. A .Council'of tile Great Powers discussed the situation in. Eastern Europe. • The Polish situation was considered. Marshal Focli attended, and advised on military aspects. It was decided to send a mission of eight delegates, America. Britain, France, and Italy being each represented by a civilian and a soldier, to inquire into tho conditions and ascertain what help was necessary. Both America and Britain insisted on obtaining the fullest trustworthy information. Similar views wore expressed in regard to Russia. President Wilson proposed a motion . in this direction, but the difficulty of securing news from the interior of Russia was recognised. It was suggested, however, that contiguous countries should be visited. An official communique, states that tho Conference approved -.President Wilson's proposal that the single object of the associated Powers was to assist Russia to the utmost, and to recognise her right to settle her own affairs. There was no desire to exploit Russia in any way. The Conference invited representatives of recognised groups in European Russia, except Finland, to send three representatives from e;ich L'rmip to Princes Island, in the Sea of Marmora, to meet representatives from the Confer'-nre, provider! alt military activity in Eastern -Russian and Finland ceased. The meeting of the Peace- Conference representatives and Russian delegates was

fixed to take place by February 15. The Conference's proposal was sent by wireless to Russia.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable

INVITATION REFUSED BY M. SAZANOFF. (llcc. January 24, 9,15 p.m.) Paris, January 22. M. Sazanoff says tho invitation to i-he Bolshoviki is an outrage on the Russians who remained faithful to tho Entente. He refuses to participate in the meeting, and says lie is sure that General Denikin and the Omsk' Government will • also refuse. —Aus.N.Z. Cablo> Assn. DISPOSITION OF GERMAN COLONIES JAPANESE CLAIMS IN THE PACIFIC. Sydney, January 24. Japanese files to December 21 discuss tho Pacific question. Tho "Nitchi Nitchi Shimbun" has an article complaining that Australia is trying to monopolise the trade of New Guinea, and is generally attempting to prevent the development of Japanese trade in the South Seas. ■ It enlarges upon the naval assistance Japan gave to the Allies in the war, and asks: "Had tho Japanese Navy not been mobilised when enemy wnrships were ravaging the seas, could Australia and New Zealand bo safe as they are now? Could tho Australasian troops have been safely transported, or the German South Sea Islands so easily occupied'? Instead of remembering theso. things, Australians aro trying to check tho southward advance of Japan. She wants to utilise the captured territories for this purpose." The paper declares that wlion the disposition of the German colonies is dealt with at the Peace . Conference, particularly of those south of tho equator, any exclusive policy should bo opposed by all means, and Japan should firmly insist upon her right. Unless compensation is secured for the services rendered bv the Japanese Navy, the dignity of tne Japanese Empire will be lost. ' The entire area of the islands south of the equator is 900,000 square'miles. .On these tho Japanese coultf develop peacefully, and economically and naturally. The "Nitchi Nitchi" asserts that many Japanese had planned to develop their op J portunities in tho South Seas. —Aus.t 'N.Z. Cable Assn. . VIEAVS OF THE' GERMAN COLONIAL OFFICE. ' New York, January 21. The Berlin correspondent of tho "Chicago News" reports that an official gazette of the German Colonial Office says:—"President Wilson has made it clear that the Peace Conference will equitably and justly solve the colonial question. . The German Government feels that the Entente's retention of the German colonies would be neither fair nor just, and would! be evidence of an intention to suppress, tho nation," In an interview Herr Meyer Gerhard, formerly a member of the German Colonial Office, said it was possible that Germany would agree to an - international commission to govern the colonies for a period of ten or twenty years, with tho understanding ■ that when 1 a strong Republican Government; was built up, Germany would again assume control of tho colonies. —Aus.N.Z. Cable Assn. AUSTRALIA'S REAL CONCERN. • New York, January. 21. Br. Beeby (Commissioner for New South AValcs), in a speech, said lie believed'that England, the dominions, and the! United States would have a stronger effect on world! policy if they emerged from the war without territorial gains. ' Australia's real concern was for a peace which would lead to tlio abolition of conscript armies, progressive disarmament, and prevention of future economic wars. He felt sure that Australia would.agree that the Allies should jointly hold trie occupiedcolonies as trustees, pending future meetings of the Council of Nations. Australia was unanimous that 1 the Pacific Islands' must be used as a future base for military and naval operations. _ Mr. Beeby addressed several meetings throughout the country, and was well received. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. LEAGUE OF. NATIONS ' THE BRITISH PROPOSAL, Paris, January 21. The British proposal for the League of Nations suggest, that it should-take the form of a non-rigid conciliation body, not possessing binding .powers, but based on sufficient international guarantees to be effective, —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. y THE MOST POPULAR SCHEME. (Rec. January 25;. 1.45 win.) London, January 22. The plans for the League of Nations are attracting - increasing attention. The most popular scheme consists of tho appointment of a council of members of the Government of the Great Powers to meet at short intervals.' All the members of the league will meet, regularly, but less frequently review the Constitution: It is stated that the league, in order to avert wars, will submit disputes to council or the full league, all agreeing not to fight until decision is reached. If agreement is impossible, the aggrieved Slates will fight in accordance with the rules of war. Disarmament may not .vet be included. Several ■ other of President AVilsnn's proposals must temporarily be dropped, including tho freedom of tho seas, and equal international economic treatment. —Aus.N.Z. Cable Assn. STATUS OF THE DOMINIONS. (Rec. January 24, 7.35 p.m.) • -Paris, January 22. Mr. A. J.' Fraser savs that .a statement has been published in Englniul that the dominions were demanding representation on the League of Nations. So far as inquiries reveal, no reason arises for the demand, as tho fact that the dominions are separately represented at the Conference confers recognition of. their status as nations, and their claim that they are entitled to come , within the league is an inevitable . corollary.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE WAR PUNISHMENT OF THE GUILTY." Montreal, January 21. The Paris correspondent of the United Press states that the American Peace Delegation appears to favour fixing tile guilt for the war,, and the punishment of the guilty, including the Kaiser. Thole is interest in President Wilson's views. It is felt that he also is in'.favour of punishment, and since the French- and English have already expressed the desire to punish the guilty, his attitude will probably fix the course to be pur-sued.—Aus.-N.Z. Cablo Assn. PLENARY SITTING OF CONFERENCE TO BE HELD TO-DAY; (Rec. January' 24, 7.35 p.m.) Paris, January 22. A plenary meeting of the Conference will l)o held .011 .Saturday, when Mr. Lloyd George will move the League of Nations proposals.—Aus.-N.Z. ' Cable Assn. (Hec. January 21, 5.5 p.m.) Paris, January 23. The Supreme Council discussed the questions of international Labour legislation, reparation, - punishment of Germans, and international .-control of

ports .and waterways with a view to arranging the agenda for the first plenary conference,on Saturday,—Aus.-N.Z. | Cable Assn. i JAPAN'S ASPIRATIONS ."UNFETTERED DEVELOPMENT ON 1 THE HIGHAVAY OF JUSTICE." (Rec. January 24, 11.10 p.m.) ( New York, January 22. The "Now York Times" Washington correspondent says rliat tho Japanese Embassy has published VisVount Ucliida's speech at Tokio. Viscount Uchida said, that Japan would .co-oper-ate with thd Allies to ensure a lasting peace. Japan's only national aspiration is unfettered development on the highway of justice. Japan waBM the rehabilitation of Russia as a" Great Power. ' She will withdraw her troops as fas.as is deemed wise; "Japan had decided not to aid China financially. Japan has no aims in tlin direction of territorial aggression in China. Iviauchau will be returned to. China in accordance with the terms of tho treaty of 1915. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. BRITISH DOMINIONS' REPRESENTATION COMPLAINTS OF ITS BEING. EX- . CESSIVE. ' • ' (R-ec. January 25, 0.40 a.m.) London, January 22. The "Morning Post's" Paris correspondent states that there is a strong feeling in. many quarters that it would have been bettor to regulate admission to tho Conference according to actual sacrifices; Somo complaints are mado of the excessive British dominions' representation from a quarter not bowed down by a heavy death roll, but tlio number of Australian ( Canadian, and New Zealand graves in France and Flanders is sufficient to test the right of these dominions to sit with England and France. There is a .danger that the Conference will not settle down to business beforo the glow of victory has departed. Tho early departure of President Wilson does not calculate to speed up business, bccause there will be no time during his stay to solve most important problems. Probably only pious resolutions regarding the Leaf.io of Nations will be passed meanwhile.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.. ' NEW ZEALAND'S DELEGATES IN PARIS THE CLAIM TO TWO REPRESEN- ■ • TATIV.ES. (Rec. January 24, 7.35 p.m.) Paris, January 22. Mr. Massey and Sir Joseph Ward have arrived. Mr. Massey will raise Nev Zealand's claim to two representative), claiming that tho Dominion is as much entitled 1 to two as outside countries like Siam and Hejaz.—Aus.N.Z, Cable'Assn. MR. ; MASSEY INTERVIEWS. MR. LLOYD GEORGE. (Rec. January 24, 5.5 p.m.) Paris,. January 23. Mr. Massey, in an interview-with Mr. Lloyd George, objected to the admission of only one delegate for. New Zealand. Mr. Lloyd George pointed out that New Zealand's position was the result of the Peace Conferences. The decision was not that of the British Government. Mr. Massey declared that if other dominions asked for representation on tho League of • Nations ha would demand 1 tho same for New Zealand.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. CLAIM RESTS ON DOMINION'S AVAR. EFFORTS. (Rec. January 24, 11.50 p.m.) ' London, January 22. The New Zealand delegates are making their case public. Mr, Massey's claim of two • delegates rests roundly upon New Zealand's, war efforts, v Ho points out that New Zealand's sacri,fices. we're proportionately equal to those of the United Kingdom, and 1 greater than those of any other DoHe . declared: "New .Zealand looks a small'country from here, but on the basis of sacrifices it is more entitled to two representatives than certain other nations." It is understood that Mr: Lloyd George pointed out that Britain was sympathetic, but tho limitation of representation was the work 0f... the. Congress as a whole. Other. nations regarded an additional New Zealand delegate as nil additional British delegate. Mr. Massey does not blame Britain or tho other' dominions, but outspokenly criticises the. Conference's decision. Mr. Massey strongly supports Mr. Hughes's plert for separnto dominions' representation on the League of Nations.—United Service. THE AMERICAN DELEGATION MR, TAFT MAY SUCCEED PRESIDENT AVILSON. ; ' New York, January 21. The "New York Evening Sun's" Washington correspondent says that, as the President will return to the United States nest-month, it is belieyr ed that he ivill appoint Mr. AA r . H. Taft to take his place on the Peace Delegation. This is considered a wise move, as • Mr. Taft' approves of the League of Nations, and has the support of American Labour. . Tho appointment. will perhaps assure the ratification of the .peace treaty by tho Republican. S'enators.r—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. ■ SWISS PRESIDENT IN PARIS MARITIME OUTLET DESIRED. ; Paris, January 21. The Swiss President has arrived. He is not'officially associated with the Conference, hut hopes to converso with the Allied statesmen, 'with a view to securing a maritime'outlet by'way of' the Rhine, and admission to tile League of Nations.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.