THE PEACE TREATY.

Taihape Daily Times, 2 May 1919, Page 5

THE PEACE TREATY.

LARGELY THE WORK OF BRITAIN.

Received, Mdy 2„ 11.40 a.m. PARIS, April 30

British delcga*?s have played a more prominent part in the work of the Conference, than appears on the surface. The Labour Convention in the treaty is solely a British achievement. The British can claim a great share in framing the League covenant. To this Mr Drummond’s appointment is believed to be due; The air terms are almost entirely the work of the British, and although the French naturally exercise a preponderating influence fixing the

military terms, yet it was Mr Lloyd George’s insistence that secured the abolition of conscriptiu in Germany. The British also insisted on the Kaiser’s punishment. Nothing can yet be said about repatriation, but when the treaty is published it will certainly be found that particular losses, such as those by the submarine campaign, will receive full compensation. IJndei the treaty Germany loses 75 per cent of her’ iron ore; one-third of her coal; 20 per cent of her potash; and between seven and eight millions of her population. o—LEAGUE OF NATIONS. FIXING. THE COVENANT.

PARIS, April 30. President Wilson wished to postpone the finishing of the mandates until the League meets; but Mr. Massey and General Smuts strongly urged early fim ’.ity, and it was agreed that the mandates should be fixed after the presentation of the treaty but before The only mention of the mandate system in the treaty will be the clauses in the Covenant as published.