ANGLO-FRENCH DECLARATION.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XL, Issue 9292, 29 April 1920, Page 5

ANGLO-FRENCH DECLARATION.

(Per Press Association Copyright.) ~ SAN REMO, April 27. The following" is the text of the Anglo-French declaration:—•' The Allies have examined a letter from Goeppert dated April 26, presenting a request from the German Minister of "War to the effect that Germany desires to maintain an army of 200,000 instead of 100,000, and declaring that this is necessary for the maintenance of order.

The Allies state that a proposal of this nature cannot even' be examined as long as Germany fails in the most important obligations of the Treaty, and does not proceed with disarmament. ■ Germany is not living up to her engagements regarding the destruction of war material, the reduction of her effectives, or provision for coal, nor in regard to reparations or the cost of army occupation. She has given neither satisfaction nor apologies for assaults, to which, on several occasions, members of the Allied Missions have been subjected, or taken steps towards •uoicrßuq.Bda.i .101 sai^ijiqmj Suunraqjraos'e Although settlement is in the interest of all concerned, she does not appear even to be considering how to meet her obligations, as and when they mature, The Allies do not ignore the difficulties the German Government is faced with, and dq not intend to insist on too literal an interpretation of the Treaty, but are unanimous in declaring that they cannot permit a continuity of these infractions of the Treaty, which must be executed, and remain the basis of relations between Germany and the Allies. They are determined to take all measures, even if occupation is necessary of further German territory, which would have the effect of ensuring the execution of the Treaty. On the other hand, it is not their intention to annex any portion of German territory. At the same time, the Allies'will consider questions raised by infractions of. the Treaty, and measures necessary to ensure its execution. The questions could be more easily solved by an exchange of views between the heads .of Governments than by an exchange of Notes. Therefore they invite the heads of the German Government to confer directly with Allied Governments. If a satisfactory settlement is reached, the Allied Governments are willing to discuss any question affecting internal order and the economic well-being of Gecpany, but Germany must understand tnatthe unity of the Allies for the execution of the Treaty is as solid as it was for war, and that the only method by which Germany can regain her place in the world is loyally to. execute the engagements to which she has subscribed.