DISARMAMENT

Hokitika Guardian, 29 March 1933, Page 2

DISARMAMENT

BRITISH PLANS

INTERNATIONAL DISCUSSION

(British Offic'rl Wireless.)

RUGBY, March 27

Delegates from many countries spoke when the discussion began on the British Draft Convention at the Disarmament Conference at Geneva. Practically all ?lie speakers warmly welcomed the general idea of the plan, and expressed appreciation of the motives underlying its production, and recognised its stimulating effect on the conference, but many found individual points in the scheme which, in their view required amendment. This was in accordance with expectations.

Consequently, Sir John iS'impn j tabled a resolution, that the Convention should serve as r» basis for discussion after Easter, the various delegation retaining the right to propose modifications,' amendments, and additions, according to their wishes. He expressed satisfaction at the reception given to the plan, and said that out of 34 speeches made, not one had disapproved it. Despite the . reservations, the plan in principle had been approved. He was sure that most countries were dissatisfied with the figures allotted to them, but aj further examination might, give them some comfort. In. reference to Germany, Sir J. Simon said that.a further contribution to disarmament, but a contribution that would weigh heavily in the balance, would be the establishment of confidence, goodwill, and mutual understanding. M. Nadcily based his speech on a quotation from Mr . R. MacDonald’s open speech insisting that the- basi.> fo r ultimate agreement was to b c one of “give and take.” M. Nadoly maintained that Germany already wa s a | disarmed nation, and therefore any Disarmament Convention must find abolish all weapons forbidden t 0 Germany, or must allow such weapons in Germany. He added that .present insecurity of Europe was a result of rigours and injustice,? of peace treaties. He said the British plan did not provide for enough disarmament. M. .'Dovgalevsky, ion ’behalf of Russia, emphasised that the Soviet was ■ unable to remain indifferent io proposals for the reduction of nonEuropean armies, owing to having such a neigrftcur as Japan. iMj. Madariaga, .on behalf of Spain, declared ' the British air 'proposals were far too modest. He called foi the . total .suppression of military and naval aviation. _____