AMERICAN NEWS

Hokitika Guardian, 24 January 1928, Page 1

AMERICAN NEWS

(Australian & N.Z. Cablo Association.)

FRANCE’S REI'LV TO TT.S.A. NEW YORK. Jan. 21

The New York “Times” Washington correspondent says AT. Brianci’s reply to Air Kellogg's note, cabled on 20th January, is leceived. Although cordial and friendly in tone, it impressed the officials as vague, marking no progress in the negotiations. Opinion is inclined to the view that the multilateral troatey proposal should he dropped for the present, and that it may later take the form of a proposal for a declaration to he issued simultaneously by the Powers to the effect that they consider war an unfortunate and unwarranted instrument for the settlement of international disputes. It is understood the French note intimates that in view of France's European committments, she cannot subscribe to a pact against all wars, and suggests that United States might take up the question with other Powers, leaving France out for the nonce.

The State Department, however, is not inclined to such action.

SENATOR BORAH’S COALAIEiNT WASHINGTON, Jan. 22.

Senator Borah has issued a statement attacking the naval programme. Referring to Admiral I’lunket'x remarks, he said: “These statements put out by naval officers give notice to all the world and particularly to Britain, to got ready for war. I regard such declarations as mischievous to the last degree.”

Senator Borah then refers to similar declarations by English criminals, and adds; “All this is part of a well organised plan to prepare the public mind for a naval race. A limited number of cruisers to help police our commerce can ho justified, hut this programme, together with the wild, excited statements about war, are sheer madness.” CHARGES OF .MISAPPROPRIATION NEW YORK. Jan. 22. A report from Albany State Capital states that the most serious charge's of malfeasance while in office made against a woman since the power to hold office was granted to women in America, has been lodged against Mrs Florence Knapp, Dean of the College of Home Economies, at Syracuse University. and ex-Secretary of State for New York.

A Commissioner investigating the charges recommends a criminal prosecution. alleging the illegal disbursement of 118.000 dollars, and waste of

nearly 80,000 in her administration of census funds. The charges include nepotism, and the giving away of State funds which were ultimately traced hack as in her possession.