FINAL MESSAGE.

Taranaki Daily News, 7 November 1921, Page 5

FINAL MESSAGE.

INTERVIEW WITH M. HARA. THE POLICY OF JAPAN. BIG PROBLEMS AT HOME. . -r By Telegraph.—Press Assn. —Copyright. Received Nov. 6, 11.5 p.m. New York, Nov. 5. Two hours before his assassination the Philadelphia Ledger’s Tokiq correspondent had an interview with M. Hara, who said: “I not only hope for the success of the Washington Conference, but am optimistic regarding the outcome. It is my desire that Japan’s wishes shall be made clear, that her delegates will be frank and open, and I hope any misunderstandings will be swept away. I should have liked to have gone to the conference as a delegate, but political conditions at home prevent it. “There is an opening of the Diet at the end of next month, when many questions will be brought up, such as Shantung and Siberia, which it is my desire to have settled at the earliest date, and if possible, during the early days of the conference.” Regarding Shantung, M. Hara declared: “We approached a settlement with China, and in the friendliest spirit proposed terms which we believe are fair and represent the fullest concessions Japan can make. I am perplexed to find the reason why China should not agree.”

Regarding Siberia M. Hara said: “Until recently many Governments had been formed in Siberia, which were not sufficiently stable to preserve order and peace in' the Far Eastern republic. Chita was the only one likely to maintain order. I am desirous of withdrawing Japanese troops from Siberia, but we must have the Chita Government’s assurance that the Far East republic will not countenance Bolshevik movements or propaganda. We must be assured of the security of Japanese lives and property. We somehow are apprehensive that Chita is in close communication with the Lenin Government and may co-operate with them. A basis must be found, and I am satisfied it will be found for a satisfactory settlement. It is my desire that these negotiations shall be concluded while the Washington Conference is progressing.” Referring to disarmament, M. Hara said: “Japan is no exception. All nations find it ruinous and burdensome to go on building larger navies. The Japanese people are just as anxious for the limitation of arms as the United States and England. I am confident it will be but a short time when Japan’s motives will be understood through the action of her delegates.” —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.