NOT THE TIME.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 March 1917, Page 2

NOT THE TIME.

Lord Fisher’s Decision. (Australian & N.Z, Cable Association aud Reuter). (Received March 2, at uoon.) London, March 21 There was a dramatic incident immediately ihe House of Lords met. Lord Fisher rose and said—When our country is in as great jeopardy as it now is, is not the time to tarnish great reputations, asperse the de&d tnd discover our supposed weaknesses to the enemy, so I shill not discuss the Dirdandles ri pert, but shall swait the end of the war, when all T'

the truth can be mrda known." Lord Fisher then left ths House.

Russian Activity. (Australian & N.Z. Gable Association and Reuter.) (Admiralty per Wireless Press). London, March 21 Russian official—ln the direction of Sakiz v?e are pursuing the Turks. We have entered Turkish territory. There is great reconnoitring activity on the west front. Commercial Intelligence (Received March 22 at 11,25 a.mj London, March 21 The Board of Trade, in conjunction with the Treasury, is establishing a Department of Commercial Intelligence by increasing iha Trade Commissioners fi oru four to sixteen, covering the whole Empire. Sir L, Stanley stated th 6 trade corporations would include representatives of industry and commerce aud be assisted by experts of industry, men possessing the widest knowledge of affairs.

/ Volunteered Ottawa, March 21 Mr Blondin, Postmaster-General, has resigned, as he has volunteered for overseas service. State of War New York, March 21 At a meeting of the Union League Club speeches were . delivered by Messrs Roosevelt, Choate, Root and Hughes. Resolutions were adopted recognising that' war now exists by tho acts of Germany and urging the people to concentrate with united loyalty to secure effective Government action. | NEW ministry’Fdeclaration. Question of High Command. (Received, March 22, at 12.55 p.m.) Paris, March 21 The new Premier, M. Ribot visited and read the Ministerial declaration A in the Chamber and Senate, respectively. He said v/e have entered the decisive period of the terrible war, the Allies partaking in the first retirement of the enemy, caused by the pressure of our admirable troops. Although the retirement was only a prelude to further rough battles wherein the enemy will expand its last efforts, Franca feels confidence in making afresh spring from the results due to the clever strategy of the Allied leaders. The question of the High Command in Franoe, has given rise to many debates, but it is now definitely settled that Government is the master of all thae concerns the organisation and maintenance of the Armies, and when the Government ba3 ohosen its leader, it will leave him with complete * freedom for the etrategetic conception preparation and direction of the operations.