THE IRISH PROBLEM.

Hokitika Guardian, 26 May 1922, Page 2

THE IRISH PROBLEM.

4UBTRALIAN AND N,Z. CABLE ASSOm-MON IRISH CONFERENCE AT LONDON. LONDON, May 25. Mr Michael Collins is unlikely to accompany Mr 'Arthur Griffiths and Mr Duggan at their conference with Mr Churchill at London on Friday. The London “Daily Chronicle” says: ‘The British Cabinet is facing many serious Irish issues. Firstly, is the one as to whether the Treaty is upset, as the result of Mr Collins’ and Mr De Valerafact. secondly whether a republic is now likely to be declared in Southern Ireland ; in which case, the British Government will either be compelled to recognise it, or; to resume the functions of Government there, and thirdly, how is this to be done? The “Daily Chronicle’ says that the - •British Cabinet’s views regarding Sir James Craig’s repudiation of the Ulster Boundary Commission, is that if the Irish Free State constitution is established, a. Boundary Commission is inevitable. IRISH AFFAIRS. LONDON, May 24. Lord Birkenhead, replying to a question in the House of Lords, said: “The gravity of events in the past few days in the North and South of Ireland make it apparent there must be a full discussion in Parliament during next week.” A NATURAL RESULT. LONDON, May 24. English and Scottish Insurance Companies operating in South Ireland have declined eo undertake, after May, insurances against fire, arson, burglary, or similar risks. RAID BY ULSTER. SPECIALS LONDON, May 24. The Ulster Special Constat-alary of Ballymena made a drive across the Balgally Mountains. They arrested one man. While the* specials were returning, they were ambushed. A fierce two hours’ fight following, during which two attackers were killed. A constable named Rutledge was slightly wounded. The police captured some rifles and ammunition. LLOYD GEORGE WILL OPEN DEBATE LONDON, May 24. r Chamberlain, replying to a question in the House of Commons, said that when informed that strong feel-. iug had been expressed on the matter in nil quarters of the House, Mr Lloyd George had authorised him to state that lie would defer to the wishes of t;'e House and would open the Genoa debate. Mr Lloyd George had said he must ask the House to allow him to reply, should the debate or the criticisms render a second speech necessary.