DISARMAMENT

Evening Post, Volume CXV, Issue 73, 28 March 1933, Page 7

DISARMAMENT

DRAFT CONVENTION

DISCUSSION AT GENEVA

PRINCIPLE APPROVED

(Iritish Official Wireless.) (Eeceived March 28, 11.30 a.m.)

EUGBT, March 27.

j The delegates of many countries spoke when the discussion began on the British draft convention in the General Commission of the Disarmament Conference at Geneva. Practically all speaij ers warmly welcomed the general idea of the British plan, expressing appreciation of the motives underlying its production and recognised its- stimulating effect on the Conference, but many found individual points in the scheme which, in their view, required amendment. This was in accordance with expectations, for the plan, although owing its existence to British initiative, is largely comprised of ideas pnt forward by dfferent delegations during the course of the Conference discussions.

Consequently Sir John Simon tabled a resolution that the Convention should serve as a basis for discussion after Easter, various delegations retaining the right to propose modifications, amendments, and additions according to their wishes.

The British Foreign Secretary expressed satisfaction at the reception given to the. British disarmament plan ana said that out of 34 speeches made regarding it not one had disapproved it. Despite reservations on this, or that point, the plan in principle had been approved. He was sure most of the countries were dissatisfied with the figures allotted to them, but further examination might have given them some comfort. In reference to Germany Sir John Simon said that she was not being asked for a1 further contribution to disarmament, but the contribution that would weigh heavily in the balance would be the establishment of confidence, goodwill, ana mutual understanding.