THE GERMAN COLONIES.

Taranaki Daily News, 28 September 1918, Page 4

THE GERMAN COLONIES.

The question of the retention by Greater Britain of II,« captured German colonies has been the subject of many determined utterances on the part of units of the Umpire, but up to the present the hopes of Germany for the restoration of these colonies have never been dashed to the ground by a distinct avowal by the British Government that under no circumstances will these possessions be allowed to ever again belong to Germany. This declaration has now been made by the British Secretary of State for the Colonies, and it will be Been that it lacks nqthing in directness of purpose, or straight-out policy. Speaking as the mouthpiece of the Government to the overseas press delegates, Mr. Walter Long was forceful and emphatic. It was a particularly fitting opportunity for enunciating the firm resolve of the Government to prevent Germany in the future from utilising Pacific islands as bases for wireless stations, aeroplanes and submarines. It is pleasing to note that the Minister went further than making the bare declaration; he justified it on the ground that Germany must be made to understand that she had overstepped the mark. It was also fitting that he should explain the difference between Britain not seeking for territory—an irrefutable assertion—and taking the necessary steps to secure the safety and security of the distant portions of the Empire. No one can read the momentous words of Mr. Long without feeling that the interests of the overseas dominions are safe in his capable and statesmanlike hands. "If," he said, "these territories are returned to Germany, the sacrifice of our heroes will have been made in vain, and the spirits of those men will come from their graves to rebuke us if, after the sword has done its splendid work, the pen is so cowardly as to give back what the sword has won. In these noble sentiments the whole of the Empire will concur. It is time that Germany should be made to understand that from this decision there is no swerving and no appeal. She has only herself to blame for compelling honest nations to protect their property from brigands and pirates. We may now rest assured that the question is definitely and irrevocably settled, and be thankful it is no longer a matter of doubt.