Hokitika Guardian & Evening Star THURSDAY, JANUARY, 22nd, 1920. THE DEMAND FOR THE KAISER.

Hokitika Guardian, 22 January 1920, Page 2

Hokitika Guardian & Evening Star THURSDAY, JANUARY, 22nd, 1920. THE DEMAND FOR THE KAISER.

The Allies’ request for the extradition of the Kaiser from Holland for the purpose of trial in connection with his complicity in the war, is definite. Also jt is very explanatory. It does not take things for granted, nor assume that Holland knows the full measure of the charges against the Kaiser. It is definitely explanatory as to the international law, and the article under which the extradition is claimed. It seems to he couched in such terms as anticipating, if not a refusal, an argumentative objection. The request is signed by M. Oemmiceau on behalf of the 'Allies, apd is bo couched as to put the Netherlands Government on its honour, in dealing with the matter. In fact, it puts the matter very pertinently when its nays: “The Powers cannot conceive that the Netherlands’ Government would regard with less reprobation than themselves the immense responsibility of the ex-Kaiser. Holland would not fulfil her international duty if she refused to associate with other nations in punishing the crimes committed.” And again: ‘‘The Powers are convinced that Holland would not wish to cover by her moral authority, the violation of the essential principles of the solidarity of the nations, or hinder the attempt to prevent a repetition of a similar catastrophe/’ It may be assumed that the Allies have some knowledge *f the predetermination of Holland” on the extradition question. Ip has been in the air for a long time, and Die authorities of international law have been looking very closely into the legal position. Holland'’s attitude may be known jp official circles, hence iha very pointed manner in which the issue at stake is put to the Netlierland’s Government. The letter of request leaves very little doubt as to the determination of the Allies in the matter, aqd though the Dutch Government may dally .over the issue it will be difficult ill the end t° avoid answering jthn specific request now mujde. The trial of the Kaiser will i>e a special function in every way. f,t is to bo by an international bench of judges. The trial will be in England, in conformity with the statement made some time ago by the Hon. Mr Lloyd George. The ex-Kaiser will he given the fullest liberty in regard to his defence, and it may he expected that the trial will not proceed with any undue haste. It i« not necessary to speculate on the end. There is a good deal to he said before (that point is reached. It will be satis, factory to the world at large to see that William Hohenzollern has been brought to the bar of public justice, and will he called to his personal account for the great war put upon die world. By this means only can the ends of true justice be served. Personal or national revenge is not. desired, because w/fhout a fair and open trial that might !be reached by unjust means. Alt that is required is (that justice shall be meted out according to the demerits of the case, and nothing more or less than justice will satisfy the public opinion of the world in this international matter.