PEACE MOVEMENT.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 220, 1 August 1917, Page 5

PEACE MOVEMENT.

THE FUTURE OF NATIONS. MUST WORK OUT OWN SALVATION. IN THEIR OWN WAY. ALLIES NO DESIRE TO INTERFERE. j Received 8.55, LONDON, July 31. In the House of Commons in the debate on the Consolidated Fund, several members referred (to various ‘poinjts in relation to ultimate peace, such as the Reichstag crisis, pressure of war on Germany, uneasiness of the German people, and the possibility of a democratic Germany in 1918 or 1919 Mr. Balfour replied: “The Government was invited to declare its policy, but he was not sure this was a wise course. The broad principles animating the Government had been expounded, by those holding high office during the

past three years. The Government was unable to enter into details or anticipate the work of the final peace congress. They desired the nationalities composing the heterogeneous States of Central Europe should be allowed to develop along their own lines, and carry out their own civilisation. We must continue to help France to restore herself to the position before the attack engineered by Bismark in 1870. When peace w r as seriously and finally discussed, not prematurely by those talking about it for the purpose of- the disintegration of the Allies, the result will not depend on the wishes of a single individual or nation. It was" impossible to effectively discuss the method of dealing such great ancient monarchies as Austria, or how Austria, and Germany shall deal with their own internal problems. Germany must work out his own salvation. We shall not mend matters by imposing a constitution, upon her, even if able to do so. Our duty is not to discuss the terms of peace we should like, but to fight on with all the strenuous vigor whereof we are capable. ’ ’

The bill was read a third time.