PACIFIC PROBLEM

Taranaki Daily News, 30 January 1919, Page 5

PACIFIC PROBLEM

THE GERMAN COLONIES, UNCERTAINTY AS TO THEIR FATE. Received Jan. 2D, 5.5 p.m. Paris, Jan. 28.

Mr. Hughes attended iilie Supreme Council at which President Wilson's plan for the internationalisation of the German Pacific colonics was discussed. The council summoned Mr, Massey to the conference.

An impression prevails that the fate of the colonies will be settled before the plenary conference meets. —Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assoc,

REASONS FOR RETENTION. FRENCH OPPOSITION TO RESTORA TION. Received Jan. 29, 5.5 p.m. ■Paris, Jan. 27.

Mr. Frasor states, in connection the German colonies, that doubtless the fact that Germany used the Pacific islands for strategic purposes, rather than for economic development, will carry weight, also tliat the German treatment of the natives in her overseas possessions, as compared with the reasonable treatment accorded by British colonisers, will liavc an effect on the Powers' decision. There is a strong feeling in some quarters that international control will lead to confusion, especially in ,the islands, contiguous to mainlands, with whom it is natural that intercourse with these islands should be—Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assoc.

The Paris Journal says that the French standpoint in regard to the fate of the German colonies is against the restoration of territories which constitute a valuable advance in payment on account of future indemnities. There is also no question of international administration. The German colonies must be divided among the which have claims based on the war, and colonial and geographical position.—Reuter.

A ONE-POWER CONTROL. Received Jan. 20, 5.5 p.m. New York, Jan. 28. President Wilson's Pacific Colonies proposal contemplates a one-power control of the colonies, subject to the general supervision of the Peace League.—Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assoc.

CONFLICTING REPORTS,

Received Jan. 20, 10.30 p.m.

London, Jan. 28.

The Morning Post's Paris correspondent understands that the conference adopted a scheme for administering the German colonies through mandatories. Other reports indicate a compromise.— Reuter. ,