PEACE TALK.

Taranaki Daily News, 14 December 1916, Page 5

PEACE TALK.

GERMAN PEACE MOVE. [ STATEMENT BY CHANCELLOR. AN ABSURD OFFER. I'O RESUME POSITION AS BEFORE WAR, BOASTS AND BOMBAST London, Dee. 12. Ai: official wireless message states that Herr von Bethmann Hollweg announced in the Reichstag that German;, v. ith her Allies, is conscious of its responsibility before God,, before man, be-, fcie the nation, and before humanity, and proposed this morning that the hostile Powers should enter upon peace negotiations. Htrr von Bethmann Hollweg this morning received the. American, Spanish and Swiss representatives and presented them with a.Note proposing peace, and asked tliem to transmit the > : ote to the hostile Governments. A 'enna, Constantinople and Soda simultaneously issued an identical Note, tin text of which was communicated to tiro i-loiy See and to all neutrals. The contents have not yet been disclosed. The wireless message hdds The foil/, a'licd' Powers put forth propositions which, according to tlieir firm belief, provide an appropriate basis for the establishment of a lasting .peace. Practically every member of the ReicliSi,iig responded to the unexpected suit. mens and, hastened to the capital. A crowded House and thronged galleries listened in respectful silence. Ilerr von Bethmann Hollweg said the tiafc of summoning the Reichstag was left to the president's discretion, because he hoped that happy events would soon occur in the field. This hope had been fulfilled quicker than lie expected. Actions spoke for themselves. Roumania had entered the war in order to roll up their position in the east and the Somme sought to pierce the West front. Pi.newed Italian attacks also aimed at lie paralysis of Austro Hungary. The situation was serious, but with God's 1 elp their troops had so changed the conditions that Germany's security wa» greater than ever before. The German Chancellor, ebntir.uing his speech, said:— Our west' front stands. Dspite the iloiimanion campaign our 'vest front is equipped with larger reserves of men and material than formerly. Efficient (racautionr. have been taken againilt Italian attacks.

Marshal von Hir.denburg, with unparalleled genius, captured the whole of Western Wallachia and Bucharest. U'd these sword strokes are laying new 'or.ndationsi for our economic needs We eapttired .great stocks of Roumanian grain, foodstuffs and oil, the transport of which has begun. Despite the scarcity we could have lived on our own resources, now our safety is beyond question. To the great events on land we add the neroic deeds of equal importance of our submarines. The spectre of famine nhich our enemies intended to appear before us now pursues them without r.'Crc-y. Lchiiid our fighters stands the nation at work. Germany is not a besieged foit.ess as her adversaries imagine, but a gigantic disciplined camp with inexhaustible resources. We have progressed with firm decision and will continue to progress, always ready to defend ourselves and fight for our national freedoni and safety in the future. We are always ready to stretch out our hand for peace. Our -strength has not made our ears deaf to our responsibility before God and humanity. Our adversaries have evaded our former declarations concerning our rcadifiess for pence since the outbreak when the Kaiser' had to make the gravest decision that has ever fallen to the lot of a German He was compelled to older mobilisation following the Russian.mobilisation. The Kaiser's Single thought is how peace can be restored safeguarding Germany after ji victorious struggle

HQi-LWEC'S HYPOCRISY. CONVENIENT CLOAK OF HUMANITY A PEACE OF HONOR AND LIBERTY OF EVOLUTION. Received Dec. 13, ii.s pn. London, Dec. 12. Herr Bethmann-Tlollweg' continued: ''lt is with a deep moral and religious sense of duty towards the nation, and towards humanity, that the Kaiser now considers the moment has come for official action towards peaee. "The most terrific war in history has been raging for two and a half years, it is a catastrophe which "2000 years of civilisation has been unable to prevent. The spiritual and material progress, which is Europe's pride, is threatened with ruin. Germany and her allies have given proof of their unconquerable strength. The continuance of the war will not break our resistance. We are obliged to take up arms to defend justice, liberty, and our national evolution. We do aot aim at shattering or annihilating' our adversaries. "Despite the consciousness of our military and economic strength, and our readiness \,o continue, we prepose a peace guaranteeing the existence of honor, liberty, and evolution. If our enemies refuse reconciliation, Germany and her allies are resolved to continue to the victorious er.d. We solemnly decline responsibility before humanity and history. If our enemies refuse to stop tiie sJaughter, and order the continuance of the plans of conquest and .inr.!hilation, every German heart wii. burn with -sacred wrath, God will tie the judge. We proceed fearlessly and unashamedly, ready for fighting, ready for peaee." THE VULTURE POSING AS A DOVE Received Dec. 13, 5.15 p;u. London, Dec. 12. The Chancellor concluded by stating that the Germans were seized with pity for the unspeakable -misery of humanity, and were ready to give peace to the world. The Pope had unswervingly demonstrated his. iolicifrude for the irinuroer?

I was confident that tW-Allies' initiative would find a, friendly welcome on the part of his Holiness, and that the work of peace ean count on the Holy See's support. NOTE TO THE TOPE. The .'\ote to the Pope,: statqi that unlimited treasures of civilisation have been destroyed, and extensive areas iiave uacn soaked with the blood of million;; of brave -soldiers. They have fallen in millions, or are invalided. Grief is in every house. The destructive consequences will weigh heavily with belligerents and neutrals. Trade is depressed. Europe, formerly devoted to the propagation of religion -and of civilisation, is now an immense war camp. IIOLLWEG',3 FLIGHTS OF FANCY. New York, Dec. 12. Newspaer dispatches ■ from Berlin slate that the Reichstag galleries were iled. von Bethwiann-Holhveg, after anliis peace proposals, added:— a entered the war in order to .lie position in the east, and the i.li'ensive on the, Sornme had for its object the piercing of the West front. Both have failed, for Marshal von Ilindenburg gives them no rest with operations against Italy also. At the same time firm foundations were laid for our economic needs. Great stocks of grain, victuals, and oil have been captured in Roumania, and the transport of them lias begun. Great deeds also have been accomplished by German submarines. The German Empire is iij>t a besieged fortress, but a gigantic, firmly disciplined camp, with inexhaustible resources.". A. FACTOR IX THE MOVE. New York, Dot. 1-2. The Berlin correspondent of the New York Times says thai the food plans of Germany for the current year have been badly wrecked, owing to the almost complete failure of the potato crop. Only 21 million tons were harvested, against 51 millions in 1915. An order has been issued, reducing the potato flour rations. A SENSIBLE VIEW. . New York, Deo. 12. Members of tire United States Cabinet nelieve that there is no prospect of the. Allies accepting peace. They consider it a move on Germany's part to endeavor to create a demand for peace in the Allied countries. They also believe the terms outlined by the'lGonnnn Embassy are intentionally ?xlggeratcd for the purpose of 'bargaining.

\ FLIMSY EXPLANATION. Washington, Dec. 12. A prominent official of the Gorman l.mbassy informed the United Press that Germany's pence terms included practically a return to. the territorial status bewe the war, the following exceptions: The establishment of the Kingdoms, of Poland, and Lithuania, and the readjustment of international boundaries in the Balkans, Tile latter question _ was so complicated that it meant at least the partial restoration of Sorbin and Roumania. The terms also included the return of Germany's lost colonies. Tne Embassy ofiftial adds: Ths factors which led to the German propomis art the favorable military position of tlie Central '.Powers, the fact that winter necessitates the cessation ot hard fighting, and the desire to .convince the world that Germany is not lighting the war for territorial conquest. The important question is to discover whether the Allies will talk peace." PROPOSALS WELL ADVERTISED. London, Doe. 12. The Central News points out that tl.c German announcements in tbe Reichstf.g are being circulated by the German Govrnment, which is sedulously advertising the session by world-wide though devious channels, but the reports bear o textual similarity which is an iiulieatio,. that they are sent out by the German Government, though its motives have hitherto been obscure. Vancouver, Dec 12. Advices from Berlin state thai the Reichstag met amid tremendous excitement. Herr von Bethmami-Hollweg conferred with representative of the neutral Powers and handed them a note containing Germany's'proposals, which it is iindorstood will form the basis of a lasting peace. Hcrr von Bethmnnn-Hollwweg formally proposed that peace negotiations be begun with the representatives of Switzerland, the United States, anil Spain. Germany oll'ered to give up all conquered territory and return to ihe ante bcllimi status (that is the conditions existing before the war).

AMERICAN VIEWS. New York, Dee. 12. There is tremendous interset here and in Washington in Hen von BethmannHollweg's proposals. Count Bernstorff interviewed -Mr. Lansing- as to the possibility of Mr. Wilson intervening. circlet opine that Germany's decision is the result of their .n -Rouniania and the Cabinet crisis in England, The United States wil! transmit the proposals without com ment. New York newspapers give prominence to the speech with headings across the page and pictures of Herr von Beth-n.ann-Holhvcg and ■ tin* Kaisei. Special editions sold like wildfire. There was excitement in Wall. Street at the first announcement with quieter fading following, which was due to the belief that the Allies will absolutely .efuse to accept peace. The indifference of the Morgan circles is considered to mean tha ttbe American financial representativs of the Allie*. will not consider the possibility o f peace, believing that Mr. Lloyd George is organising a tremendous offensive and is determined resolutely to pursue the war. The New York 'Sun states that, ivhile Germany is scheming for ;eace, the Allies arc steeling themselves for war. : Washington, Dee. 12. The peace proposals from Jie Central Powers came as is distinct .surprise to official and diplomatic circles. The prevailing opinion is that Germany i;. making' the oiie. in expectation of making terms acceptable to the Allies of Englnnd, and that the effect might possibly be to cause the British to yield to the pressure o: the nations fighting with It is generally acknowledged in Entente circles that Germany is trying to bring about a position where she may BiaUe i aepatatt peacq.

TEXT OF TERMS.

GERMANY'S MODEST REQUIREMENTS. Received Dec. 13, 5.30 p.m. Washington, Dec. 12. It is stated that the German Embassv has received the text of tiie German peace terms, providing, in addition to those cabled, for the complete restoration of Belgium, the* evacuation of northern France, the retention of the bulk 3 f Serbia by Austria, t)ix> restoration to Bulgaria of the territory lost in the second Balkan war, the restoration to Austria of territory captured by Italy, and Turkey's retention of Constantinople.

COLOSSAL BLUFF.

TYPICAL TEUTONIC SOPHISTRY. WHY PROPOSALS NOAV MADE. CHASTISEMENT AT HAND. , Received Dee. 13, 7.15 p.m. j London, Dec. 12. London and -Paris regard the Kaiser'n peace declaration as colossal bluff, typical of teutonic sophistry. The Germans know the military position can never be more favorable than at present. 'Bulgaria, who got the maximum plunder now wants peace, just when the avenger, in the shape of Mr, Lloyd George" is about to administer chastisement. Nevertheless, the world-wide publicity of the declaration -proves that Germany is anxious for immediate peace, if possible, so as to secure the spoils. MR. HENDERSON'S VIEWS. ' The British nttitude towards the Kaisers proposal has been well summed up by Mr. Henderson, who said: "All the most unscrupulous military forcfts are against us. Peace at present would "lean that the Allies would soon have the whoje thing to fight over again."

LOVE OF PEACF

AUSTRIA TAKES UP THE PARABLE. BLUFF AXD GAMMON Renter Service. Received Dee. 13, 8.5 p.m. Amsterdam. Dec. 12. An official telegram from Vienna, in connection with peace proposals, reiterates that Austria is fighting in self 'defence, , nevertheless, in combination with loyal allies, the Austro-Hungarian aimy anil fleet are fighting nnd bleeding, and also conquering, and they have frustrated the intentions of the enemy. The Quadruple Alliance has won not only an in.mouse series of victories, but holds ex tenure hortile, territories. Our latest, tleaclierous' enemy can testify that our strength is unbroken. The message declares that the enemy blockade and starvation measures can never succeed in chattering the alliance, and that it wil. be useless and iiinvailing for the enemy to prosecute the fight. The enemy cannot itfter Fate by a continuation of the war; the Quadruple Alliance's there, fore impelled to candidly aiul loyally endeavor to discuss peace terms. Thus Ims the Quadruple Alliance given a new and decisive pl ; oof of love f.ir peace.

EFFECT ON THE REICHSTAG.

DIFFERENCES OF OPINION. Australian Cable Association Received Doc. 13, P.lO p.m. London, Do?. 1:). German official news, by wireless, slates that Herr Holltvcg't first sentences evoked applause on all sides after overt paragraph. To die first portion of the speech tire demonstratively assented, but later, when the Chancellor enme to the peaee question, differences of opinion were manifested, applause coming mainly from the Catholic Centro and Left. After the Chancellor had ended, the nv.ijoritv of the House, along the lines mentioned, applauded, and the people, in the gallery joined in the clapping' of hands, making' a huge demonstration. Herren Baeserniarin. Westarp. and Ledehour favored an immediate discussion, but Hen Spahn's proposal foi leaving the summoning of the next sitting to the president's discretion was voted for by an overwhelming majority. The president, in closing the sitting, declared that the nation and its dele gates would always support the Chancellor in his policy, which was farsighted, firm, and intelligent.

TESTING BRITISH SENTIMENT.

BY MEANS OF MINISTERIAL RE-ELECTIONS. • Received Dec. 13. 8.80 p.m. London, Dec. 13, Owing to the likelihood of peaee agitation arising ill some parts of the country, the Daily Telegraph understands that the Government will not seek to abolish the re-election of Ministers, but it is considered the by-elcctions in the industrial centres will act as a test of public sentiment .in the peace question. The Liberal Whip has offered full support to the Liberal organisation for the re-elections. The Daily Telegraph states that ..lie Central Powers have offered Belgium the following terms:-—Belgium to insist on an immediate peace; Germany to restore her independence and financially assist in her economic rehabilitation. MR. HUGHES RETICENT ' Received Dee. 13, 10.41 p.m. ' Sydney, Dc.e. 13. Mr: Hughe- want? more particulars concerning the strangely-tuned peace offer before commenting thereon, BELGIUM'S PART Amsterdam, Dec. 12. General von Bernhardt, in the Vossische JSeitung, says, that Germany's should include a prohibition "of Belgium having an army or indeuendent diplomatierepraaentatlvee.

BRITISH PRESS VIEWS.

LATEST GERMAN UNCTUOUSNESS. ONE PATEP TREATS IT SERIOUSLV. Received Dec. 13, 1'J,35 p.m.. LonSon, Dec. 13. The Times denounces the peace, proposals as a manifest 'sham, Herr Jlollweg's tone revealing insincerity, anfl" the speech abounding in loud vaunts of German invincibility and military achievements, which is not the language ;of a belligerent genuinely anxious to come to terms. Obviously, the statement was politically inspired, in 1 order to throw the onus of continued war on the Allies. The latter received, unmoved, the latest example of German unetuousness, and so will all neutrals who have studied Germany's motives and actions durin" the war. ° The Manchester Guardian considers it ar unquestionably genuine offer, and that the British Government should treat it as such, ascertaining definite term*; and interchanging direct views, immediately. All the parties' cards would then be on the table. It would bo unthinkable folly and crime to continue the war beyond our' definite aims, if thev are now securable. The Daily News considers Herr Hollweg lias chosen the moment well, after the reaction 'following on qvents in fioumania, but it is not a genuine offer, being merely a diplomatic move to influence neutrals that tin. AJiies are r, sponsible for the continuance of tile war. The Allies must not plaj into German bauds, % but must nut then case hefo:e the enemy and the world by stating their peace terms, and throw ,on Germany the responsibility of accepting or rejecting the negotiations. The Evening Post declares that iho great change since the 35)14 speech is proof of .1 prolonged strain, and demonstrates the impossibility oi a .Herman victory. Those Jacts .impelled '.Herr von Hothmann-Hcilwog to make definite advances for peace. The uemanad of the German people for peace is strongc: than we knew. Kinaiicier.s and manufacturers have forced the Government to seek to mi the conditions which are more and more threatening rum.-

PEACE OR DESTRUCTION TOR BELGIUM. Received Bee. 13, 5.2") p.m. London, Dec. 12. The Daily Telegraph slates,- from an (iiiiiipe.-.chahlc source, it is gathered that <Je:nany has oll'ored Belflfiii.il peace, and threatened that if it is not accepted shrwill destroy the monuments, the buildings, and even the towns. SCOUTED BY FRENCH SOr.fJI.ERS. A correspondent at the French headquarters says that the French soldiers scout. the peace oiler. They want the war fought to a finish.' KAISER PLAYS TO THE GALLERY. Amsterdam, Dee. 12. The Kaiser lias /tent a message to all liis generals and soldiers, as follows: '"By agreement with', the Sovereigns of my Allies, and ivith the consciousness ni victory, I oil'er piace to the enemy. Whether it >vill he Accepted is still uncertain. Until ihat moment arrives I shall light or..''

GERMAN NOTE TO NEUTRALS.

i .masterpiece . o? "cant. AMERICAN* TRESS VIEWS. Received Dec. 14, 1.23 a.m. 'Nev York, Dec. 13. The German' 'Note to neutral* asks 1 "o.- a bridge of, communication' to bo ■ilar-ed before the Allies. The Note adds: llermany. does not .ftim to shatter or r.nnihilate her adversaries, . but is prompted by tiie desire to avoid further bloodshed and put ail end to the atrocities of the war. The Central Powers are willing to enter on peace negotiations. Our prepositions have the object lo guarantee the existence' of honor and liberty of evolution fcr all nations, which, is an appropriate basis of lasting peace. Our lines stand unshaken, , tnd the most recent events justify our expectation of further success. If, despite th:s offer of peace and reconciliation, the struggle continues, the Central I'owers are resolved to fight to a victorious end, but we disclaim all responsibility before, humanity and history., The New York Times says that the only basis of enduring peace is the dc-i-tnicticii of Prussian militarism. The New York World considers the proposals more like a truce than peace. 11. Stephane Lousanne,, editor of Le Matin, who is in New York, says the proposals will be (piickrv ' rejected. I'rairce will not consider an> terms which do not include the restoration of Belgium, Alsace and Lorraine, and the complete integrity of Serbia. Received Dec. 14, 1.40 a.m. London, Dec. 13. The Daily Mai] says the whole of the tricks are too obviously the outcome of empty German stomachs, the tremendous defeats on the Somme, and the heavy losses at Verdun arid other fronts, including half a niillidn Austrian* during Russia's summe: offensive. Although the German t reserves have not yet been exhausted,'we must win if the Allies: all strike at once. The Germans are singularly deluded if they imagine 'we will permit their submarines; to. starve us out.