NAVAL LIMITATION

Hokitika Guardian, 29 April 1929, Page 5

NAVAL LIMITATION

PROSPECTS OF CONFERENCE

(United Press Association —By ElectricTelegraph—Copyright).

(Received this day at 8 a.m.)

NEW YORK, April 27

The “New York Times” Washington correspondent says although reports from Geneva that representatives rf five naval powers have suggested to their Governments that a five-power separate, conference for a reduction oi naval armaments he held this summer, are not confirmed here, nevertheless, the situation arising out of Mr Gibson’s proposals is considered very satisfactory. Officials believe it is yet- too early to expect any definite move towards an actual practical reduction in fleets, hut Air Gibson’s proposals i have met with such an enthusiastic reception by statesmen of the nations concerned that there is every reason to hope ior some action looking towards an armament reduction agreement before the 1931 Washington Conference. It seems to be the desire of Mr Hoover’s administration that all five naval powers should participate in such a conference, but it is believed .that success or failure of further efforts for a reduction will depend chiefly on the attitude of United States and Great Britain. The aspect of assurances that no war can come between these countries (cabled on 19th April) is considered of paramount importance.

BRITISH DESIRES. (Received this day at 8 a.m.) LONDON, April 28

Sir A. Chamberlain in a speech at Nostel Priory said Britain not only desires a partial limitation of certain classes of warships, but a reduction applied throughout the whole field of naval construction.