THE ALLIES MEET.

Taranaki Daily News, 9 January 1922, Page 5

THE ALLIES MEET.

POSITION OF EUROPE. ECONOMIC REVIVAL. THE FIRST TASK. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—copyright. Received Jan. 7, 5.5 p.m. Paris, Jan. 6. The opening session of the Supreme Council at Cannes provided a surprise, indicating Mr. Lloyd George’s victory over the French and Belgian views. According to the agenda, M. Briand and M. Theunis demanded that the exaction of reparations ought to be the first consideration, but Mr. Lloyd George, supported by Italy, regarded the consideration of the whole European economic situation as an essential preliminary, holding that the reparations question could not be discussed apart therefrom.

As M. Briand presided, it was expected he would immediately press the French view, but, apparently as the result of a pre-conference and private parleys, M. Briand simply welcomed the delegates. Mr. Lloyd George immediately followed with a lengthy review of the economic situation, declaring it was the Allies’ duty to bring about peace and restore the markets of Central Europe.

Mr. Lloyd George pointed out that the deplorable condition of Russia* heavily burdened Germany, who, before the war, derived the bulk of her prosperity therefrom. Goodwill all round was essential if Europe’s reconstruction were to succeed. Therefore he proposed a five Power economic conference, embracing Germany and Russia, to consider the whole economic position. They must insist on Russia ceasing her propaganda, recognising her external debts, and undertaking not to attack her neighbors. Similarly, the latter must undertake not to attack Russia. Mi;. Lloyd George’s speech profoundly impressed the Council, which agreed to his motion in principle, and then proceeded to discuss the guarantees which they should Remand from Russia.

ECONOMIC QUESTION. MATTER FOR ALL NATIONS. Received Jan. 8, 5.5 p.m. London, Jan. 7. A Cannes correspondent states that the Conference unanimously resolved that all European Powers should be invited to send representatives to the economic and financial conference meeting in February and March, and the Prime Ministers of every nation should attend if possible.— Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.

TWO PROBLEMS.

COMMISSIONS APPOINTED. Received January 8, 5.5 p.m. London, Jan. 7. The Cannes Conference is dividing into two commissions to study, firstly, reparations, and, secondly, Europe’s economic restoration. Signor Bonomi supported Russian inclusion in any restoration scheme, but that they must guarantee no foreign propaganda. The economic conference sits at Genoa early in Inarch. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn.