THE IRISH PROBLEM

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 103, 24 January 1918, Page 5

THE IRISH PROBLEM

IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS AMERICA TAKES A HAND SETTLEMENT VITAL TO WAR EFFORTS (Rec. January 23, 3.30 p.m.) London, January 22. Supremo efforts will bo made w:tLin the next few days to settle tho liish question.—United Service. "The Times" Washington correspondent in an important dispatch states that President Wilson informed Mr. Balfour of the vital bearing the Irish problem had on America's war elforts. The correspondent adds: "America ro longer regards this question as a I'ntish affair, but as one deeply affecting the whole of the civilised world. Even official circles strongly feel that in tho event of a collapse in the Convention the Government must accept the majority report of the conference and enforce it upon tho minority. The United States is eager generously to assist in the establishment of industries in lieland if that country were given colonial autonomy. Congress would vote a loan of one" hundred million dollars (£20,000,000), and immense amounts of American capital would be invested in the Irish industries.—"The Times."'

SIR EDWARD CARSON'S RESIGNATION EMBARRASSED BV DUAL POSITION. (Rcc. January 23, 9 p.m.) London, January 22. The Press Bureau states: "Sir Edward Carson wrote to the Premier \;hen he joined the Government that he had no consideration in his mind except the prosecution -of the war. Sβ did rot anticipate that the question of the Irish government would be reopened during tho war. When the Convention was proposed ho thought it right to influence the Ulster people to participate. Owing to his dual position as a member of the Government and leader of the Ulstermen ho might have ttooti aloof from the proceedings of tho Convention. The proceedings of the current conventions might lead to a situation demanding the Government's decision on grave matters of policy in Ireland. 'Therefore, owing to the piominent part I have taken in the Borne Rule controversy and the pledges which were given to Ulster, I desire to he unfettered in forming any judgment on any new situation that may aiise. I have therefore determined to resign, solelv in these considerations.' ,;

Mi , . Lloyd George replied with the deepest regret. In recognising Sir Edward Carson's special difficulties the speaker paid a tribute to his set-vices to the nation's councile while accepting his resignation.—Aub.-N.Z. Cable Assn.