German Blockade

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVII, Issue 208, 11 February 1915, Page 5

German Blockade

USE OF NEUTRAL FLAGS. SOME GERMAN SOPHISTRIES. LVSTTANIA'S ACTION* DEPLORED ; Amsterdam, February 9. German newspapers state if America acquiesces in the Lusitania's misuse tf the flag it will be impossible for a CVr- 1 man warship to ascertain whether ships t are neutral or not. It would be shiei nicide for submarines to make long investigations. There will be no question of contraband or non-contraband in Brit ish waters after February 18. London, February 9. The majority of American newspaper regard the Lusitania's hoisting the American flag as a blunder which will create more commotion than the Germans' proclamations. Some consida that it makes the flag worth less as a protection for American ships. The text of the German blockade memorandum contains a statement that neutrals are acquiescing in Britain's acts but they have not succeeded in inducing Britain to restore to Germany any property seized in violation of international laws. Neutrals also in certain directions have aided British measures, which are irreconcilable with the freedom of the sea. Obviously under British pressure they have hinder.'.! the transit of goods intended for peaceful purposes in Germany. The letter expects neutrals to show the same consideration for her vital interests as for these of England. j The Daily writes: "While the use of a neutral flag by BritWb merchantmen may legally be consistent, it will nevertheless disturb British coinion. Such tactics seems inexpedient, even humiliating. Since when his the Union Jade become colours to be hauk-d doun timidly or t. ofi. v inadeq 'a'/ |.r-; tection on all seas? The whole affair leaves a disagreeable taste in the mouth of England. Our confidence in the Admiralty and Navy is such that we are bound to regret profoundly the resort to a subterfuge which, while it in no way excuses German piracy, may give the enemy and neutrals an opportunity for the sneer that we are least inclined to tolerate."

New York, February 9. Newspapers recall that the HamburgAmerika steamer Bohemia entered Ne-.ir York on August 15, flying the British flag and the Whito'Star colours, deceiving British warships. WILL HOLLAND BE EMBROILED! Amsterdam, February 0. The newspaper Hetvolk states that tbe German memorandum betrays a tendency to stamp neutrals as accesories in hostile acts against Germany. The danger of war is again threateningly near. GERMANS USE SPANISH FLAG. 1 I TO LAND KARLSRUHE'S VICTIMS. Received 10, 11.25 p.m. j London February 10. i It is pointed out that the German steamer Evefeld used the Spanish flag when landing the crews of steamers sunkj by the Karlsruhe. i