WAR NEWS.

Hokitika Guardian, 5 April 1917, Page 1

WAR NEWS.

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OFFICIAL NEWS

Frogress in West.

Australian & N.Z. Cable Assorialion ai d Kenttr),

WELLINGTON, April 4. The High Coimnissioner reports from London on April 3rd: The French report that east and west of the Somme, after violent artillery preparation, our troops attacked tile position extending north ot the Castles-Essigny lino and Denay from the spur at Dallon to the and despite, a desperate resistance we everywhere reached our objective and captured on a front of thirteen kilometres a series of points of supports solidly organised, which were held by important forces on the spur at Dallon.

The villages of Dallon, Gifficourt and Oei'isy and several heights south or Urvillers arc in our possession. , So t(til of Ailotto wo continue to progress, and also in the region of Laffaur, of which we liold the south and north-west boundaries. Wo also captured Vauxcny and gaincel a footing on the ridge northwards of it. , The enemy violently bombarded Ulieims- with 2000 shells. The President’s Charge. (Aus’ralan & N.Z. Cable Aesooiation and Heater.) Washington, April 4 The President added: Let us he very clear to all the world what our motives and objects are. Our motives now, as before are to vindicate the principles' of peace and justice in the life of the world as against a selfish and autocratic Power. Neutrality is no longer feasible. Wo have yecn the last if neutrality. We have no quarrel with the German people and no feeling- to ward them except sympathy and friendship. It was not upon their Government acted in entering the war. It was a war provoked and waged in the interests' of dynasties using their fellow-men as pawns. A steadfast concert. for peace can never be maintained except by a partnership of the democratic nations'. No automtaic Government could he trusted to keep faith. Only free peoples can hold their purpose and honour steady.

A New Order.

LONDON, April 2

The Daily Chronncile _ says: King George is l instituting an Order similar to France’s Legion of Honour, called the ‘Order of the British Empire’ for the purpose of honoring men and women for distinguished public services in war time. Tile first list of conferments will shortly be issued.

A German Claim

LONDON, April 3,

A wireless German official claims to have made prisoners' of over 300 near Moreuil, but coming under the English machine guns, only 60 reached our lines.