CABLE NEWS.

Hokitika Guardian, 25 June 1921, Page 2

CABLE NEWS.

Imperial Conference AUSTRALIAN AND N.Z. CABLE ASSOCIATION. MR MASSEY’S VIEWS. LONDON, June 23 Mr Massey intends to press for an early decision on the question of Pacific defence, New Hebrides, State-aided immigration, relations of Dominions foreign policy, the ensuring of permn||Bj£-' ence in shipping; and the Dominions ' share of German reparations. He also is anxious for a clearer understanding on the powers and cost of the League of Nations. He regards the present state of affairs as unsatisfactory. The League is ineffective and is unduly costly. Mr Massey admits it is possible he may not obtain unanimity at the Conference on naval defence, but he will await developments before expressing bis opinion. In reference to a suggested defence conference, Mr Massey and Mr Hughes are cordially co-operating on defence matters.

Regarding the N.Z. Soldiers’ resolution on naval defence, Mr Massey approves of tbe suggested utilisation of tbe canteen funds and has taken steps to bring tbe New Zealand K.S.A. re-, solution before Mr Lloyd George. Mr Massey says he is gratified at the patriotic spirit prompting the suggestion, and states that whatever future policy may be decided upon, New Zealand may be relied upon to do her fair share. FRENCH COMMENT. (Received This Day at 9.40 a.m.) LONDON, June 24. The “Petit Parisien” refers to the exaggerated comments of other newspapers regard the Imperial conference, particularly the “Matin's” suggestion that the British Colonial Empire is. on the way to collapse. It says the reality is that an evolution is proceed-* ing in the British Empire, which occurs in sill countries with vast colonial possessions. Canada, Australia and New Zealand share with United States a profound aversion to yellow immigrants and consider in the contingency of their needing protection against Japan, that the American fleet and army will be able to give more immediate protection than the British. The idea that Britain and United States are ever coming into conflict is monstrous.

NOTABLE FRENCH ARTICLE

(Received This Day at 9.40 a.m.) PARIS, June 24

Among articles on the British Imperial Conference at Stephane, Lausanne writing in the “Matin” urges the advantage of a Franco-American alliance over a Franco-Britisli. He says the British star is declining, and the American is rising. The British domination extended over five continents and appeared 'invulnerable. Now the new star was drawing everything to itself. The speeches of the Dominion Premiers show they were addressing compliments to Americans. General Smuts even describes America as a country which is the dearest of all humanity. The mere apprehension of a renewal of the Anglo-Jnp Treaty may displease America sufficient to upset South Africa. MR HUGHES. (Received This Day at 10.15 a.m.) LONDON, June 24. Mr Hughes has forwarded a silver kangaroo, on an ebony base with “congratulations to Prince of Wales on his birthday.” Mr Hughes positively denies the suggestion that Larkin’s resignation forecasts a termination of the Government’s steamers shipping. Developments will continue on approved lines.. Larkin’s resignation was tendered voluntarily and much to Mr Hughes surprise. -Mr Hughes met M. Clemenceau and invited him to Australia. M. Clemenceau was appreciative, but declined on the score of indifferent health and press of time. M. Clemenceau retains the vivacity of mind and indomitable purpose which made him France’s “grand old man.” Mr Hughes has received a notification from Klotz, Finance Minister, that ceremonies in the devastated area of Somme are fixed at Amiens for July 10th, and requesting his presence as representative of Australia, whose admirable sons defended so courageously this territory. Mr Hughes hopes to accept, but there are indications that Conference pressure of business will prevent him doing