AT WASHINGTON.

Taranaki Daily News, 28 January 1922, Page 5

AT WASHINGTON.

PROGRESS OF PROBLEMS. FORTS IN PACIFIC. NEW PROPOSALS. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received Jan. 27, 9.55 p.m. Washington, Jan. 27. The Far 'Eastern Committee did not hold a session to-day, due to the non-completion of the work of the sub-committee dealing with electrical communications. China’s position in connection with article 19 still continues indefinite. It is understood a new proposal concerning the

fortifications of the Pacific has been advanced, under which the islands will be named which may not further be fortified, and it is assumed that the Philippines, Guam, Formosa and Bonin will be named. What islands Britain will not fortify is not known. It is not considered likely the new plan will be adopted. THE SECRET SESSIONS. ATTACKED BY SENATOR. Received Jan. 27, 8.5 p.m. Washington, Jan. 26. Senator Johnson, addressing the Senate, attacked the secret sessions of the Armament Conference. He declared that the Conference started with modern methods of open diplomacy, sponsored by Mr. C. E. Hughet, and then Mr. Balfour followed Mr. Hughes’ example and the rest trailed along. He added: “Look what the Arms Conference accomplished at those open sessions and then look at what it accomplished secretly.” Senator Johnson opposed the quadruple alliance, but supported disarmament.

NEARING THE END. Washington, Jan. 25. Article 19 of the Naval Treaty is still untouched. Final advices from Tokio have not yet arrived. It is expected, nowever, that Japan will concede the idea of the status quo for the Bonin and Pacific Islands north of the equator. It is expected that a reply will be received from Japan within the next few days.

Settlement of Shantung matters is expected %y the 28th inst. It is expected that there will be a quick cleanup of th? loose ends of the conference with tfnal adjournment during the next ten days. Mr. Hughes had a conference with President Harding relative to Shantung matters. President Harding is anxious for a settlement on the basis of harmonisation with the views of the Chi-no-Japanese delegates. A prominent American official declared that through the offices of Messrs. Hughes and Balfour. the Shantung railway issues have been narrowed to a very small difference. As won a* the Shantung question is settled it is expected that Japan will make an explanation of her twentyone demands on China. The Japanese delegation is anxious to sail on February 10.—Special to Aur. Press Assn.