THE PREMIERS.

Taranaki Daily News, 11 July 1921, Page 5

THE PREMIERS.

RIGHTS OF INDIANS. EQUALITY OF CITIZENSHIP. THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS, By Teiegrajii.—Press Assn—Co ay rift i. Received July 10, 5.5 p.m. London, July S. Tne morning session of the Premiers'’ Conference to-day was occupied with Indian affairs. The Maharajah of Cutch and Mr. Eastri stated the case for equality of citizenship within the Empire. Mr. Sastri admitted the right of the Dominions to restrict immigration, but he opposed invidious dificriminaton between Indians and other British subjects. Ho expressed satisfaction with the first instalment of Indian self-gov-ernment and hoped it would develop into full Dominion government. Mr. A. J. Balfour followed with an exposition of the League of Nations, which, he said, bad already proved of incalculable advantage to the participant*. The League was destined to become the greatest instrument of peace in the world. Th*.* Indian delegates invited the Dominicn I‘rcmkra to visit India as the guca's of the Government. Mr. Massef, Mr. Meighen and Genera! Smuts regre-tte I they could not afford the time. The conference was attended to-day •pv officers of the Colonial Office, Mr. Vv. M. Hughes, Mr. W. F. Massey and representatives of the Foreign Office to rseuss the New Hebrides and the failpro of the condominium. Mr. Hughes ■cut forward his proposal for consideration by the British Government, and Mr. Churchill promised to bring the idea before Cabinet with a view to future discussion It was agreed that Mr. Hughes, who is to visit France, should take* up tho question with the French Government, after conferring again with the Colonial and Foreign Offices. It is understood the suggestion is on the lines already cabled, suggesting control by Britain or Australia. The British delegates to the League or Nations Council also attended the Conference to-day, explaining the position, progress and outlook. A short discussion followed, all the Prime Ministers participating. The tone of some of the speeches was almost hostile, the opinion being expressed that unless there were fii’gns of improvement the League was a useless extravagance. Later Mr. Sestri made a statement on behalf of th? Government of India.—AUS.-NJZ. Calle 'Ajifl.