IRISH AFFAIR0

Hokitika Guardian, 4 December 1925, Page 3

IRISH AFFAIR 0

[Australia & N.Z. Cable Association

DISCUSSIONS IN LONDON. LONDON. Dec. 2. The Irish Boundary discussions arc continuing. Mr Churchill. Lord Salisbury and Lord Birkenhead have conferred with the Irish Free State represnlatives and with Sir Jas. Craig separately. The postponement of the Commission’s award has considerably eased the delicate situation, and it serves a vital purpose by giving time lor further eoiiiiideration.

ft is regarded in some (piarters as a preparation for a settlement out ol court between the Free State and 1 Istor.

The “Daily Telegraph’s’’ Parliamentary correspondent states: “It is understood that Cabinet has agreed to enter a new agreement, under which the Irish Free State will make a greatly, reduced contribution to the British Exchequer, ns compared with the original liahilitos under the Irish Treaty, in return for which, the present boundary will lie. preserved, and the Commissions’ award will he with-held. It is hoped this offer will lead to a complete settlement of all the outstanding difficulties. IRISH BOUNDARY SETTLEMENT. LONDON, December 3. Mr Baldwin in a statement to the Commons, said the terms of the Irish settlement were that the powers of the Boundary Commissioner were revoked f and the Free State relieved of liability under Clause Five of the Treaty, lull assumes Britain’s liability for malicious damage done since January, i!UO. The Free State and Ulster Governments agree to confer on matters of common interest. Ibc agreements reached to he subject- to Britain’s confirmation. The Imperial Parliament, is to pass I he necessary legislation at the earliest possible date.

Air Baldwin added that the Free State undertakes to legislate increasing by ten per cent, the eompoiisal ion for malicious damage within their territory.

BOUNDARY SETTLED. LONDON. Dee. 8. The Irish Boundary Agreements have heen signed mid Ihe boundary remains unchanged.