The Daily News. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31, 1921. THE PASSING YEAR.

Taranaki Daily News, 31 December 1921, Page 4

The Daily News. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31, 1921. THE PASSING YEAR.

Of all the divisions of time, that which marks the close of one ye'ar and the commencement of another naturally attracts special attention. Time rolls onwards without a break, leaving in its wake the records that make up the life of the individual and the history of the nations. Just as the calendar year is the period during which this earth, on whieh we live and have our being, makes one complete revolution in its orbit, so is it complete in other ways. The year that closes at the end of to-day has its special features, joys and sorrows, of good deeds and evil, of progress and strife. Above aill, it has been a time of comparative peace, yet neither lacking troubles nor efforts to uplift humanity. When the year 1921 of the Christian era came into being, hopes ran high that the aftermath of the war Woilld lose its severity and permit of an early return to normality, although the economical situation was so serious that it dominated all others. It still has a world-wide effect adverse -to progress and prosperity, and there is little doubt that history will record the year that is now closing as one that witnessed a serious industrial and economical crisis that threatened to lead to disaster of an unparalleled nature. Fortunately there are signs at the passing of the year of the worst having been passed, and if only the right spirit ■will animate all classes in the coming year there should be marked progress made towards a new era of world advancement, peace and prosperity. The three outstanding events to be credited to 1921 are the three conferences that were held during the year, the first being the gathering of Empire

Premiers, the second the historic conference at Washington, while the third related to the settlement of terms of peace with Ireland. The conference Of Empire Premiers was the most momentous of its kind yet held, and it was successful in every way from an Imperial point of view. At Washington delegates from the nations assembled to endeavor to solve two great problems-—dis-armament and the Far East. It g’as hardly to be expected that

complete unanimity would be obtained at a single conference on such vexed problems, yet tke limitation of capital warships has been agreed to, though the matter of submarines has yet to be decided, owing to the foolish policy adopted by France, The agreement for a naval holiday will have a potent effect towards the restoration of financial stability, as it will relieve taxation and set flee many millions fol’ Use in fostering industry end the arts of peace. With the passing of the financial stringency which so adversely affected tirade ahd industry during the last twelve months, there should be a marked diminution of unemployment, though the workers must face lower wages and probably longer hours in order to reduce the cost of production and the cost of living. By making these sacrifices flow it is likely that the time will not be far distant when they will be in a far better position than ever previously. No more complex task has ever been undeiita.'ken by British statesmen than the efforts they made during 1921 to heal the discord and grievances that have for such a,long period existed in Ireland, where matters have come to a crisis which it was imperative to overcome. They approached that task with exceptional geiierosit.y, tact and conciliation, besides being imbued with a determination to find some solution that would be acceptable to Ireland and the Empire. After overcoming almost insuperable difficulties an agreement was arrived at, but ratification by the Sinn Fein Parliament is still wanting. There are, however, indications that the treaty will be ratified in the coming year. That this most desirable act should materialise is the sincere hope of the whole Empire, and the present year closes with the prospect of tliat age-long trouble being ended. So far as the Dominion is concerned the passing year has not been so bright as its . predecessors, owing to the fall in produe# values. Yet there, has been much to be thankful for, and if the people will display courage, exercise true economy ah'd work with a will, they should soon regain their accustomed prosperity. The experience Should prove beneficial if its lessons are taken to heart, for it should promote cooperation and organisation. On the whole the. passing year, with all its troubles and trials, has not adversely affected the solidity and producing power of the country, so we can face the future without fear. Many changes have taken place, but in the mam progress has been maintained, and the outlook is by no means tinpromising. The improved conditions in the Mother, Country indicate better times, wherefrom the Dominion may receive benefit, io all our readers we say: Be ot o-ood cheer and courage, help torward by all in your power the return of true prosperity and the advancement of the country, and thus ensure “A HAPPY NEW YEAR.”