BRITISH POLITICS.

Hokitika Guardian, 15 February 1924, Page 2

BRITISH POLITICS.

LATEST CABLE NEWS

HOUSE OF LORDS. BRITAIN AND FRANCE. [ Rkctkhs Tf.lkohams. ] LONDON, Feb. 13. Iu the House of Lords, Lord Haldane dealt- with the importance of maintaining the Anglo-French friendship. He declared that security was what, iu their hearts, the French people desired most. The British Government wished France that security almost as much as she wished it hetsclf. The only difference was a difference in methods. Lord Haldane pointed out the impossibility of reducing armaments. A still better method of security would be obtained by some sort of a common mind among the European nations, if France would come with them inin the consideration ol this and other methods of security, they would :ot only assure her of an untroubled future. but secure relief for both France and Britain from a '«rv heavy bnidem YIF.W OF PREMIER’S SPEECH LONDON. Feb. 13.. Except ill connection with Poplar pool- law affairs. tTie morning papers find little to criticise in Air MacDonald’* opening speech. The Liberal organs particularly are commenting approvingly, and they declare that the new Government had a highly creditable day.

Some parliamentary correspondents represent the left wing of the Labour Party as disappointed and sulky, one Labourite terming if a Liberal speech with a few chunks of Toryism.” LONDON, Feb. 14.

In the House of Commons, Afr Baldwin. in his criticism of Air MacDonald’s statement, deplored that no informal ion was afforded as to whether the navy, army and air force would he increased or diminished. There was not a single word as to how unemployment was to bo cured. Tt- was touching to observe hope springing eternal from the human breast, Mr AlaoDonald optimistically hugging sweet reasonableness as an infallible specific for restoring Europe. A long succession of Prime Afinisters had adopted the same method. While wishing him greater success, he warned him against carrying this policy too far. and not reaping the rewards of reasonableness. He asked what was meant by the Union of Soviet Republics. AYliat was their territory, and with whom are we making arrangements. Until commercial justice was achieved, and honest dealing restored. business with Russia would bo impossible.

Air Asquith said the Liberal and Conservative election programmes contained most, if not all, of the Government’s proposals. He intended to ask for a full discussion of Afr A\ hoatley’s action regarding tho Poplar Poor Law Guardians, which lie believed there was not the slightest chance of the House of Commons countenancing. Afr dynes (leader of the House) declared he had no complaints against the tone and temper ol the criticisms. He realised the Government must measure its paces according to the limits whereto it was able to drive the members of all parties. He promised an opportunity lo discuss tho Poplar action, submitting tlie lull facts. Ihe Government intended to express its views on the Imperial Conference resolution*. It was impossible to approach the question of the capital levy until the. country had expressed its approval. Hr T.ansbury (Labour) who headed a Poplar demonstration, resulting in Air AYheatley’s decision, denied that Poplar Guardians wished to break the law. They took the attitude that Sir A. Maud’s peremptory order, fixing pauper relief, was an illegal document. Ho added that there was worse things for tho country than revolution. “We want to break up the present poor law, and start afresh,’’ he declared. The debate was adjourned. LABOURITE AS DEPUTY SPEAKER. LONDON, Feb. 13. The Labourite. Afr Robert Voting, lias unanimously boon elected deputy Speaker of the Rouse of Commons, and Chairman of Committees. Air MacDonald stated that negotiations had proceeded oil the basis ol each party having one member acquainted with the duties of tho chair. RUSH FOR SEATS. LONDON, Feh. 13. Afrs Wintringham. AI.P.. the buxomest woman in the House, lost hoi hat in the struggle for seats on Tuesday. Later Air Sexton, member for St Helens, protested against “this rush in which they knocked mo down and walked over me like a carpet.” french appreciation. ißei-eived this day at 8 a m.) _ PARIS. Feh. 13. Official circles are most appreciative of Air MacDonald's cordial tone and are convinced of his sincerity and determination to appreciate the French viewpoint. They are confident that the practical task ol working out. the solution of the various qit?s ; i ms will be carried out iu a spirit of muitial understanding based on th< new cordial atmosphere.