THE IRISH PROBLEM.

Hokitika Guardian, 31 May 1922, Page 2

THE IRISH PROBLEM.

AUSTRALIAN AND N.Z. CABLE ASSOCi-fION. SERIOUS DISQUIET. ’ LONDON, May 29. There is serious disquiet in Parliamenary circles over the Irish Some members of the House of Commons are frankly 7 discussing the question of alternatives if the Irish Confeience now proceeding in London breaks down. It is stated the general view is that the British Cabinet will not be prepared to act without express authoiiiy from the country. The Irish election question and Lie oath of allegiance are points wiych are holding up the London negotiations.

STATEMENT IN COMMONS. LONDON, May 29.

Mr W. Churchill, in the House of Commons said ! he hoped to make a statement about Ireland to-morrow. He added in view of the gravity and urgency of the Irish issues, the British Parliament was entitled to tlie fullest information, in order to discuss the situation before the Whitsuntide recess.

FIGHTING NEAR NEWRY. LONDON, May 29.

Fighting between the Crown forces, and Sinn Feiners occurred on the Ulster border near Newry, and lasted over 30 hours, hut it ha s now eeased. Malty casualties were' inflicted on both sides.

Rebels failed to capture police bar-, racks, and sought a truce, which was granted. **-•

DERRY MAYOR’S WARNING. LONDON, May 29.

At a meeting, of the Londonderry* Corporation, the Mayor of the city warned the British authorities and the Northern Government that if the present policy of driving out the Nationals from Mother Island to Londonderry is continued, they would burn tlie city to the ground.

MORE SHOOTING. (Received this day at 9.50 a.m.) LONDON, May 30. Heavy firing at Sfrabane and Lifford continues, with sniping from the housetops. Armoured cars and machine guns are in action. It is reported tlie casualties are heavy-.

KIDNAPPED OFFICERS. (Received this day at 9.50 a.in.) • LONCON, May 30. Mr Churchill, in the Commons stated the Government had no hope that the officers kidnapped at Macroom, cabled on May Util., were alive and had so informed the relatives. He would make an Irish statement on Wednesday.