THE IRISH PROBLEM.

Hokitika Guardian, 5 December 1921, Page 3

THE IRISH PROBLEM.

ISTItAI.I.VN AND N.Z. CAlll.K ASSOCIATION SINN FEIN REPLY. (Received This Day a-t 8.30 a.m.) ' LONDON, Dec. 3.

The new stage of th,. Irish negotiations arc proceeding in most dramatic manner. Collins and other delegates departed for Dublin cm Friday and embarked in the Cambria which steaming •_>! knots, collided with and sank aiT English schooner, three of whoso crew were drowned. I’he Cambria was compelled to return to Holyhead Mq. ptssougers rcetnh,irking, reached Dublin yesterday forenoon. Sinn I'cin members of the Cabinet including l)c Valera were awaiting the delegates who handed over Lloyd George’s oiler. I here was a protracted conlcrcnce lasting several hours, whereafter the delegates immediately re-embarked with the Sinn Fein reply, which is expected in London to-day. In view of Sir J. Craig's declaration that he must he acquainted with the reply by Tuesday ah the latest, or Ulster would not participate i-n the negotiations, the delegates determination to deliver the documents to Llovd George at the earliest moment is regarded as most significant.

THE CABINET TERMS. Received This Day at- 12.25 p.tn.) LONDON, Dec 3

It is understood Sinn Fein acknowledges the tinaneial portion of the new terms are of great inqioi'tniico. and that the whole scheme is a. proof of an earnest honest endeavour by the British Cabinet, but hopes oi acceptance are not bright, hut it appears to he possible to reopen negotiations despite the rejection of the Conference. It is probable the adjourned truce will he extended. If rejected then there is a probability that a general election will bo held in Fcgrnary but if Sinn Fein accepts and Ulster rejects, the Government. according to present intentions, will pass the scheme into law, relying on nort hand south reaching an accommodation of their difference.