THE IRISH TREATY.

Taranaki Daily News, 15 December 1921, Page 5

THE IRISH TREATY.

Attitude of the rebels. PURPORT FOR TREATY. RATIFICATION LIKELY. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received Dec. 14, 9.40 p.m. London, Dec. 13. A meeting of Sinn Fein commandants in charge of the gunmen decided to support Mr. Arthur Griffiths and Mr. Michael Collins. This decision, it is considered, will lead, without trouble, to the ratification of the treaty.—Aus.N.Z. Gable Assn. LORD ROBERT CECIL’S VIEWS. SUPPORTS THE PROPOSALS. NEW POLICY INEVITABLE. London, Dee. 13. Lord Robert Cecil, speaking at Hitehin Conservative Club, said the Irish Treaty was a very far-reaching departure, and seemed almost the abolition of the Union, but he had personally come to the conclusion that a new Irish policy was inevitable. It was a thousand pities that the concessions were not made until after a period of crime, as they exposed the British Government to the charge that they had granted to violence what they refused to reason. It was a dangerous pre-, cedent, nevertheless, he was going to support the proposed settlement. There . would be better chance of success if Ulster gave a helping hand. “Our old Unionism has gone, the old parties seem unreal, and we wan. a new inspiration in politics.” \ PRISONERS RELEASE!?. London, Dec. 13. TWenty-five convicted Sinn Fein prisoners have been released from Mountjoy prison. It is understood that other releases of political offenders will be made shortly. The question has been raised whether men convicted of murder and attempted murder will also be released. GENERAL SMUTS THANKED. Capetown, Dec. 13. Mr. Lloyd George, replying to General Smuts’ congratulations on the Irish agreement, expresses gratitude for General Smuts' counsel and co-operation at a difficult moment, adding: “No one could help so effectively, and I shall always associate your name with our success.”