LEAGUE OF NATIONS.

Hokitika Guardian, 17 February 1919, Page 2

LEAGUE OF NATIONS.

[ AUSTRALIAN' A N.Z. CABLE ASSOCIATION'] AMENDMENTS PROPOSED. THE SIGNIFICANCE THEREOF. ' PARIS, Feb. 12. Japan has proposed an amendment to the draft- constitution of the League of Nations providing that all couutrim in tlio world must permit free ingress to all peoples. Another amendment from France asks two questions—what guarantee is there that the German vote in the United States will not use American politics in order to give Germany the strongest position within the League?

Obviously neither Great Britain nor America will entertain Japan’s request, but Franco may be met by pledging each nation to provide a certain force which will be available for the maintenance of the peace of the world. The real significance of the amendments is their antagonism to Mr Wilson. They represent Japan’s and France’s way ot curbing him in view of his dictatorial demands concerning the armistice. In other words, the amendments cannot be separated from the general conflict now proceeding between Wilsonism and Realism. PRESS COMMENT. (United Service Telegrams). (Received This Dav at 9.15 a.in.) LONDON, Feb. 15. Though the earliest comment on tho League of Nations is generally optimistic, tho press is still overwhelmed by the magnitude and the strangeness of the experiment, and postpones definite judgment on the various points. The “Times” refers approvingly to the bi-cameral plan, as an attempt to solve the difficulty arising from technical inequality of big and little nations, but prophesises disputes between the Lower House nnd Executive will largely remake the story of the League. The “ Westminister Gazette ” says the scheme is clear, boldly outlined and ingenious. It awaits a great world debate, in which tlie best brains of all countries should assist the Conference. The “Standard” adheres to the view that- mandatories will prove the dis ruption of influence, especially when embittered Germany is admitted to the League. A treaty safeguard accompanying the full possession of the colonies is far preferable.