RUSSIA'S RIGOROUS REFORMS.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 219, 10 November 1916, Page 3

RUSSIA'S RIGOROUS REFORMS.

HOW SHE HAS TRIED TO ALTER HER FLAG. One of the most striking features of this war is the rigour with which Russia has determined to prosecute it. Nothing seems to be too drastic for her to alter. Martial law was proclaimed in Moscow to wipe out the Teuton element. The Government sale of vodka was abolished. This is quite the most drastic move of the war. In the early days of the war she altered the name of her capital from St. Petersburg to Petrograd, another reform. Last, but not least, was Russia's attempt to adopt a new ensign for a national flag in place of the red, white and blue tricolour. This latter design was practically copied from the Dutch flag by Peter the Great. The latter, who was too busy with vital matters to design an original flag, simply rearranged the order of the three coloured stripes. Just about the time of the outbreak of war, a commission was apponitcd to design a new ensign for Russia. Until the peace of Europe became assured, however, the Commission thought it best to wait. Black, white and yellow stripes were recommended as a more favourable Russian ensign than the rod, white and blue stripes they have had since Peter the Great's flag suggested by the Dutch ensign.