SOVIET REFUSES

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20986, 13 December 1939, Page 10

SOVIET REFUSES

REPLY TO THE LEAGUE CANNOT TAKE PART QUESTION OF EXPULSION (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) (Received Dec. 13, 3.15 p.m.) LONDON, Dec. 12 The British delegation at Geneva learns that the Soviet Government has sent a reply to the telegram sent it from Geneva yesterday, and that the text of the telegram is as follows: “The Soviet Government thanks you, Mr President, for the kind invitation to take part in the discussions of the Finnish question. At the same time the Soviet Government informs you that the Soviet is not in a position to accept this invitation, for reasons given in the telegram of December 4 from the Commissariat of Foreign Affairs, sent in reply to a communication from the Secretary-Gen-eral.” The Special Committee adjourned after adopting a report to the Assembly which it is believed included condemnation of Russia as an aggressor, but it is not suggested what steps should be taken by the League. A unanimous vote of the Council is required to expel Russia. China is seeking a seat and might oppose the Russian’s expulsion, consequently it is reported that the Assembly will elect only three new members, instead of five, until the Russo-Finnish question is finalised —namely, South Africa, Bolivia and either Finland or Portugal.