THE PEACE TREATY.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 May 1919, Page 2

THE PEACE TREATY.

TAUSTRALIAN' & N.Z. CABLE ASSOCIATION GERMAN PREMIER. ’LONDON, May 20. According to Berlin advices, the Premier, Dr. Scheidemaim, speaking at a meeting of the National Assembly in Berlin, held to discuss tho Peace terms, dramatically declared: “This is the turning point in the life of the German people. We must stand together. We have no duty other than to keep our nation alive. Germany pursues no nationalistic dreams. There is no question of prestige, or thirst for power. Life—bare life—is what we must have for Germany to-day, when everyone feels a throttling hand to his heart.” Dr Scheideman went on to speak of the Germans’ disappointment at President Wilson’s attitude, and he complained at the great length of the peace conditions, which, he declared, were such that no honest man could sign them, as they meant the strangling of Germany. He declared that the Vienna Government were standing with the Germans in paving the way to negotiations, not only for themselves, but for the society of nations. Dr Scheidemann concluded: "The dignity of humanity is placed in your hands. Preserve it! We shall make more counter proposals to the Treaty, which the Government views as unacceptable. The voices of Italy, Britain, and France are now heard protesting.” The whole speech was characterised by laboured rhetoric, and it was obvious ly addressed to Germany. The speech was punctuated throughout with applause, and when the President of the Assembly declared that the Treaty was not acceptable, the House rose to its feet, and confirmed his words by tremendous cheering, in which the galleries participated. RANTZAU AND WILSON. BERLIN, May 19. Count Rantzau declares that nothing is further from his thoughts than to attempt personal negotiations with President Wilson.

THE REPATRIATION QUESTION PARIS, May 20. The latest German Note, while admitting liability to make reparation in accordance with President Wilson s Note of May, 1915 disclaims liability to indemnify the Allies for their war losses. The Allies, in a reply, adhere to their claim, pointing out that President Wilson’s Note included reparation for damage arising from Germany s aggtossion by land, air, or sea.

LENIENT TERMS. LONDON, May 18. The Council of Four, in framing Austria’s terms will probably make it their endeavour to offer more lenient conditions than to Germany, with a view to effecting the detachment of Austria and Germany. POOR INDEMNITY PROSPECTS. LONDON, May 19.

Regarding the Austrian terms, it is pointed out that the financial situation in Austria and Hungary, in regard to their war debts is a difficult problem. The Monarchy is now carved up into new States so that a repudiation of debts must inevitably occur. It is certain that the newly created States are not likely to shoulder any portion of the Austrian debt contracted during the war, though they will not be unwilling tq bear a just portion of the debts contracted in pre-war times. Any financial indemnity from what is left of tho Austrian Empire seems out of the question, but she will have to comply with the naval, military and air terms, which are similar to those imposed on Germany.

MORE SQUEALING. (Received this day at 8.15 a.m.) BERLIN, May 21., Cabinet lias announced that Germany will refuse to sign peace on the grounds that the terms involve economical destruction, political dishonour and moral degradation.

PAYING UP. LONDON, May 13. (Delayed). Hon. A. Chamberlain, in the House of Commons said Germany had paid the British six millions sterling for food; also advances towards the expenses f the army of occupation.

GERMAN PROCLAMATION. WILL HOLD DANZIG. . (Received this day at 10.15 a.nO LONDON, May 13. A Berlin wireless communique states 'H/err Scheidemann lias sent a proclamation to Danzig as follows: “We will fight to the uttermost against the separation of German territory by violence. Danzig is German to-day and will he for ever. It must remain a visible sign to stimulate ns in th° severe battle which will demand all our strength.”