Imperial Conference

Hokitika Guardian, 30 July 1921, Page 3

Imperial Conference

AUSTBALIAN AND N.Z. CABLB ASSOCIATION. LONDON, July 28. It is understood the Imperial Conference had arranged to sit only three days a week, affording ample opportunity for Prime Ministers to attend to pressing matters affectng their domnions. 'Die urgent nature of the business unexpectedly' arising, necessitated almost continuous sittings six days weekly and sometimes till late at night. The week-ends were occupied preparing for the strenuous work of the following days. In addition, the sudedn development in regard to the foreign policy and Washington proposals provided new phases lor discussion, further congesting the programme. PACIFIC PR OR LEMS. LONDON, July 28. Regarding the Pacific question, Japan’s reply was communicated confidentially to the Prime Minsters today. It is learned unofficially that t’ published summaries do not reflect the exact tone of the reply but it is impossible’ to divulge any of the details The impression conveyed, hi conversation, bv the delegates, is that the answer generally is satisfactory, !r when asked to indicate the points, they declined. One certainty is that a conference will he held to discuss the Pacific problems. Yesterday’s developments have confirmed the previously cabled prospects. The meeting place will not bej in Canada, although that would suit some' Dominions. The Prime Ministers expect the time and place to he fixed during the week-end. All the Brittle Ministers are observing strict silence, believing that indiscreet words possibly would precipitate a difficulty. The indications are that negotiations are progressing satisfactorily. It is suggested in some quarters that if a preliminary conference is hurriedly called, the British and Dominion delegates would possibly he conveyed to the rendezvous by a fast cruiser, but »a recourse to such a heroic measure is unlikely.

MASSEY ANT) HUGHES

LONDON, duly 28

Pressure of work and shortness of time are now causing embarrassment to Imperial Conference delegates. T>’ dates of . departure having been fixed the Prime Ministers are at their wits' end as to how to complete their programme.

Mr Hughes, answering a question today, remarked that lie was doing vh/it he could to deal with the general questions, hut questions involving life and death must he considered first.

Mr Massey is similarly situated. Hs works distressing hours. Ofher Prime Ministers, having the assistance of colleagues and large staffs are delegating much detail to them, but their interests arc not so complex or urgent as those of .V n tralasia.

Mr Hughes adheres to a di-termina-tion to arrive in Australia in the fir; week of October, and passages have already been hooked.