AT WASHINGTON.

Taranaki Daily News, 26 January 1922, Page 5

AT WASHINGTON.

LAND DISARMAMENT. ( DECLARATION OF POLICY. FORTS IN PACIFIC. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright Received Jan. 25, 9.35 pjn. Washington, Jan. 24. Some members of the Conference are considering the passage of a resolution favoring the reduction of land armament, but without an agreement to put any limitations into effect. At present it would simply be a declaration of policy, such as the recent Far Eastern resolutions.

The full naval committee expects to meet within a few days, but the Japanese are still discussing the Pacific fortifications clause, which is likely to prolong the Conference.

The Far Eastern committee recognised Japan's stand on the Siberian question as valid, though Mr. Hughes referred to 11. Shidehara s speech and intimated that the United States was deeply interested in the early withdrawal of Japanese troops and adherence to Japanese pledges regarding the evacuation of Siberia and respect for Russia’s integrity. The Pacific fortifications clause has been practically adjusted. It is understood that under the arrangement reached the Bonin

Islands will not be fortified, though they are considered part of the Japanese homeland.—Special to Australian Press Assn.

POSITION OF JAPAN. HALT IN NAVAL BUILDING. Received Jan. 25, 8230 pjn. New York, Jan. 24. The Philadelphia Ledger’s Tokio correspondent states the builders have definitely halted the construction of the battle cruisers Atago and Takao, and the battleships Kaga and Toba, and also the preparatory work projected oa battleships. Work is continuing in connection with the cruisers Amagi and Akgi, which will be converted into airplane carriers. It is learned that Mr. Takahashi and Mr. Shidehara urged the Cabinet diplomatic advisory council to accept the British and American views regarding fortifications lest the whole naval agreement may be wrecked.— Cable Assn.