HOLLAND’S REFUSAL

Hokitika Guardian, 30 January 1920, Page 3

HOLLAND’S REFUSAL

ALLIES LAST RESORT. - (By Electric Telegraph—Co lvright.) LONDON, Jan. 28. The Allies do not intend placidly to accept Holland’s refusal to hand up the Kaiser. It synchronises with the announcement of a German Dutch trade agreement, by which in return for the loan of £17,000,000 Holland receives valuable coal concessions, on long-dated contracts for the purchase of produce. Although the Allies in no circumstances will use threats or unfriendly pressure with Holland, they will emphasise their arguments before taking the last resort of trying the Kaiser in I his absence. An appeal to the League of Nations is suggested. French opinion is resentful.

The “Petit Journal” sarcastically refers to the coincidence of the trade agreement, and says: “It is truly singular to see the Dutch Government welcoming and protecting a bloodthirsty madman, who violated every rule of the Hague Convention.” The Allies have considered the placing of the Kaiser at the head of the list presented to the German Government. This would be possible if Holland agreed that the extradition treaties only authorised the removal of criminals to the country of their origin, but the Dutch Note evades bills issue, and merely invokes the right of asylum. The “Echo de Paris” suggests that the Allies should request Holland to undertake the permanent internment of the Kaiser and the Crown Prince. Other journals advocate the use of economic pressure against Holland. GERMANS APPLAUD HOLLAND. BERLIN, Jan. 24. The press is jubilant at Holland’s attitude and is complimenting Holland. , Even the “Vorwaerts” writes :—“This small, upright and democratic country courageously refuses to bow to the victors’ will, whilst the Entente rulers use their overwhelming forces to compel Holland to dishonour herself.”