GERMAN ITEMS

Hokitika Guardian, 24 May 1923, Page 3

GERMAN ITEMS

AUSTRALIAN AND N.Z. CAULK ASSOCIATION. GERMANY’S OFFER. BERLIN, May 23. A new reparations nolo lias been drafted and well informed circles state that Germany will not increase the amount of her offer, but will modify it with international loan proposals and with offers of more definite guarantees. GEII.MAN OPINION. THE REPARATIONS PROBLEM (Received this day at 10.45 a.in.) BERLIN May 23. Though it is likely that the change id the Premiership in England will delay tlie German reply, the preparations of a new offer are proceeding without interruption. A definite basis has not yet been decided upon. Ministers refuse to put their names lo anything that they believe Germany cannot pay. while what she can pay is beyond the capacity of anybody to estimate. Tlie leaders of the various parlies impressing for rapid action, and suggestions regarding the guarantees continue to pile up. The latest is the reservation of customs, excise revenue, and the railway surplus, hut the railways. notwithstanding the hundred per cent, increase in fares, me rm. at ■> dead loss, while the < n-fouis ami cv ' c duty, collected in paper marks, have a steadily diminishing value. A most hopeful feature at the present stage is the oft repeated remark that German industry, and even agriculture. would gladly make a heavy sacrifice if there were an element ol finality. They would either mortgage or make other contributions if the redemption could he- spread over a long period.