M. CLEMENCEAU SPEAKS PLAINLY TO GERMANY.

Taihape Daily Times, 30 May 1919, Page 6

M. CLEMENCEAU SPEAKS PLAINLY TO GERMANY.

PARIS, May 26. M. Clemcnceau, in reply to a German Note asking for the repatriation of prisoners, says the- Allies cannot release those guilty of crimes. The Allies are : not aware a hat any alleviation of their position is possible since their treatment has always observed the laws of humanity. The Allies will restore personal property when prisoners are repatriated. He agrees to 'the appointment of a mixed commission when Peace is signed but must refuse complete reciprocity in the return of prisoners in view of the treatment received by AUiO; interned in Germany during the war. Replying to Rantzau's Note regarding economic questions, M. Clemcnceau says the Note ignores the origins and results of the war. The Allies are only asking Germany io hand over four million tons of shipping, whereas Germany sank twelve million during the war M. Clemcnceau admits that important wheat and potato areas have been '.alien firm Germany, but these areas would remain free to export to Germany. Replying to complaints about live* being le.*t jawing to the blockade. ML Clemenccau reminds the Germans that there were greater losses in lives caused, by ruthless aggressions. The reply concludes; Nothing ear. prevent Germany regaining a position Of prosperity in Europe. Her territories suffered less during the war than other belligerents. Germany posseses resources intact, which, together with importations, should suffice to reconstitute her, Moreover, the great reduction in armaments will mean huge economy. The Germans/ sufferings arise not from the conditions of peace but from the acts of those who provoked a prolonged war. the authors of which will not be able to escape its just consequences."