GREAT ANXIETY

Dominion, Volume 15, Issue 42, 12 November 1921, Page 7

GREAT ANXIETY

CAUSED BY SITUATION IN IRELAND KING APPEALS FOR PATIENCE AND MODERATION PREMIER STILL HOPES FOR SUCCESS An appeal for the exercise of patience and moderation by those engaged in the Irish negotiations has been made by King George. The Primo Minister still hopes that success may be achieved. By Ttlecraph—Preu AoMciatlon—OonyrlcM (Rec. November 11, 5.5 p.m.) London, November 10. In his speech at the prorogation of Parliament, His Majesty the King made a brief reference to Ireland. He said: The situation in. Ireland still causes me groat anxiety. I earnestly exhoi-t the loaders of all parties in Ireland, and all those with power and influence in tho negotiations, to exercise patience and moderation with the object of establishing friendship and loyal co-operation between my people ' in that country. My firm belief and earnest prayer is that with forbearance, good will, and au honest re-

solve to tread the paths of oblivion and forgiveness, an enduring peace will finally b» achieved. Mr. Lloyd Goorge, replying to- questions in tho House of Commons, said h* still hoped that the Irish negotiations would prove successful. He viewed with grave concern the breaches of truce occurring in Ireland, but he was satisfied that tho Sinn Fein authorities were doing their best to secure its observance. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.

ULSTER STILL ADAMANT

DISAPPOINTMENT’ AT ABSENCE OF DEFINITE NEWS. (Rec. November 11, 8.15 p.m.) London, November 11.

There is the most profound disappointment both in and out of Parliament that Mr. Lloyd George is not able to make a more definite pronouncement regarding Ireland. It was expected that some indication of the trend of events would be disclosed before the prorogation of Parliament. Unofficial attempts were made to induce Mr. Lloyd George merely to adjourn, but he decided otherwise. Parliament will not.reassemble before January 30, unless any untoward happening occurs.

Mr. Lloyd George’s memorandum, setting out the discussions on the proposed terms of settlement, which was unanimously endorsed by Cabinet, has been Lauded over to Sir Janie® Craig (Premier of Ulster), who is still obdurate. Other member* of the Ulster Cabinet made statement's to interviewers, one declaring that if the south proved loyal Ulster might consider .the, suggestion in a few years, but at present Ulster did not trust the south.

The King’s speech and the optimism of Mr. Lloyd George’s speech produced a more cheerful effect, which was evidenced as the Commoners left the House after the prorogation, It must be remembered that, the warmer atmosphere is not shared by Ulsterman, who reniain primly alert. They may decide to take the documents home and consult their friends, or bluntly and immediately refuse to discuss any proposition. A third alternative is that. Sir James Craig may inform Air. Lloyd George that "Ulster has been no party to the London conference, the proceedings of which do not' concern us. We are prepared to enter a round-table conference if previous proceedings arc scrapped,” This would he a decided step towards an improved situation.

Opinion continues to harden against Ulster’s adanfency. This ,is not. likely to impress Sir James Craig’s dour, gran-ite-like personality, though people are beginning to ask if his- colleague* are prepared io follow him to the ultimate final break, resisting good faith appeals for reconciliation. It is not likely that any decision will be communicated for some days. In tho meantime it is stated in informed circles that Mr. Lloyd George has prepared a. special appeal, which he will *ubm.it to Sir Janies Craig and his colleagues at their first meeting. He will ask them to at least examine and discuss the proposals instead of giving an immediate definite refusal. Mr. Lloyd George and Mr. Bonar Law met recently. There was a frank exchange of views, the result of which is unknown. Daily appeals from many quarters hare been made to Mr. Bonar Law to reveal his attitude. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn] London, November 10. The Ulster Cabinet met this mnrning. Mr. Lloyd George apologised for his inability to furnish a . detailed.. statement until Inter in the dav, and suggested that the interview with him should he deferred until to-morrow. Sir James Craig, on behalf of his Cabinet-. wMied it to bo clearly understood - that, there can bn no surrender of Ulster’s rights.— Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. APPFAT TOYWONTSTS "A MEASURE OF CONFIDENCE.” (Rec. November 11, 5.5 p.m.) London, November 10. Air. Austen Chamberlain sent (he following message to-night to the Unionist Party:— “I understand how real and widespread is the anxiety in Unionist circles regarding the Irish negotiations, but it must be recognised that it is impossible for one of the negotiators to deal daily with the cron o* Tumours and sugges. lions to which the public nnyicty gives rise. No negotiations can successfully 1>? conducted on such a basis. I therefore appeal to my co!le:.-giies in the House and our supporters in th* country not to allow their minds to lie biased by rumour, but to reserve eju'h'ment until a full statement is possible. I believe that with patience and good will, n safe and honourable peace with Ireland is possible. The Government Ims stated the bread outline of the neeessalry basis for such a settlement. It is not 100 much to nsk a measure of confidence from friends.”—Aus.-N.Z. CaW* Assn.