WAR DAMAGE.

Taranaki Daily News, 6 April 1921, Page 5

WAR DAMAGE.

A DEBT ON GERMANY. VIEWS OF UNITED STATES. AGREEMENT WITH THE ALLIES. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received April 5, 5.5 p.m. Washington, April 4. The State Department has published the text of the informal Note presented to the German Government concerning reparations. The Note declares the American Government is pleased to note in Herr von Simons’ memorandum the unequivocal expression of the German Government’s desire to afford reparation to the limit of Germany’s ability. The United States stands with the Allied Governments in holding that Germany was responsible for the war, and therefore it is morally bound to make reparations as far a<= possible. The United States believes the recognition of this obligation is the only sound basis on which can be built a firm and just peace, under which the various nations of Europe can achieve economic independence and stability. The United States recognises in Herr von Simons’ memorandum Germany’s sincere desire to re-open negotiations, which once resumed may lead to a prompt settlement which will satisfy the Allies’ just claims. Herr von Simons, in his memorandum, says it is the earnest desire of the German Government to reach accord with the Allied Governments, and meet their requirements as far Jas possible. The assertions that Germany is reluctant to recognise her reparation obligations is incorrect; it is clear, not only to the German Government, but to the German people, that Germany must make-repara-tions to the limit of her ability. Herr von Simons points out that Germany repeatedly offered labor, technical advice and material as assistance for building up the devastated regions, but the offers have not even reached the point of diplomatic exchange. The German Government intends to submit fresh proposals to France regarding the rebuilding of the devastated areas. Germany is willing to assume the obligations of interest and the amortisation of the Allied foreign debts within the limit of her capacity, should such a measure be acceptable to the Allies and their creditors.—Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assn.

Received April 5, 9.55 p.m. Washington, April 4. There is some misinterpretation of a single important sentence in Mr. Hughes’ memorandum to Germany, reading: “The United States recognises Germany’s sincere desire to re-open negotiations with the Allies on a new basis.” A portion of the Press is inclined to think this means re-writing the Versailles Treaty, but the State Department meaning is a resumption of the reparation negotiations, which were summarily ended at London recently. Official circles are anxious that there should be no wrong reading of Mr. Hughes’ meaning.—Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assn.