MR. THOMAS' OVERTURES

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 3, Issue 711, 11 December 1933, Page 5

MR. THOMAS' OVERTURES

DOOR STILL OPEN Rec. Dec. 9. Rugfby, Dec. 8. In a speech at Retford, Mr. J. H. Thomas, Secretary of State for the Dominions, referred to the relations with the Irish Free State. He said: "Long range speaking will not effect a settlement of this unfortunate dispute." Mr. Sean McEntee, speaking as a responsible Free State Minister, had recently said that the Irish Free State people woulcl realise how this economic strife is gradually accustoming the people of this country to the present conditions, and there is a very real danger of permanent markets being lost as the people of Britain become accustomed to clianged circumstances and adapt themselves accordingly. "I am not unmindful," said Mr. Thomas, "that that can be as truly said about the Irish Free State with regard to our trade. Surely these facts themselves show the danger of prolonging this dispute." "Trade, commerce, trade unionism — yes, and national honour, all are involved in the principle of sanctity of agreements. That is sinrple. "I ask Mr. de Valera to believe nie when I say that the British Government have not, and will not, close the door to an honourable lasting peace, which recognises this as a fundamental principle."