LESS HOPE FOR PEACE.

Taranaki Daily News, 15 August 1921, Page 5

LESS HOPE FOR PEACE.

ANSWER FROM SINN FEIN, DOES IT MEAN REJECTION? independence wanted. By Telegraphy—Press Assn.—Copyright, Received August 14, 5.5 p.m. London, August 12. Some newspapers confirm the report that the Government regard De Valera’s letter as equivalent to the rejection of the terms. The letter is obscurely worded, being the handiwork of two or three persons, but lengthily details the kind of self-government Sinn Fein wants. The Daily News’ Dublin correspondent states that the letter reiterates the demand for complete independence of Ireland, and submits proposals for international guarantees of her integrity and neutrality. The Morning Post’s lobbyist states that the general impression is that De Valera is demanding a general amnesty and the withdrawal of all auxiliaries and the Royal Constabulary, the British Government to pay all compensation for claims arising o t of murders, woundings and the destruction of property, estimated to aggregate £7,000,000. The Daily Express says Mr. Lloyd George regards De Valera’s letter submitting counter proposals as a rejection of the Government’s terms. The Sinn Fein leaders are astonished at this interpretation. It is expected that Cabinet will reply to De Valera on Saturday. In some quarters the belief is expressed that if an agreement is not reached, Mr. Lloyd George will appeal to the country immediately on the question whether hostilities be resumed with Ireland. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. VICEROY LEAVES FOR LONDON. London, August 12. ‘ Lord Fitzalan and General Macßeady left Dublin for London. NO ACTUAL'RUPTURE. Negotiations delayed. BRITAIN TO STAND BY OFFER. Received August 14, 11.5 p.m. London, August 14. De Valera’s letter asserting Ireland’s claim for complete independence which it had been thought Sinn Fein had abandoned, throws back the negotiations but there i« no rupture. Mr. Lloyd George’s reply is expected to emphasise the point that a settlement is impossible except on the principles embodied in the terms offered. Cabinet met yesterday morning. Lord Fitzalan, General Sir Nevil Maeßeady and General Tudor being present. It is understood Cabinet’s reply to De Valera will be sent in time for a meeting of the Dail Eireann on Tuesday.—Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.