DISARMAMENT

Evening Post, Volume CXIII, Issue 100, 30 April 1927, Page 9

DISARMAMENT

ONE THING LACKING

SENTIMENT AGAINST WAR

HUGHES TOUCHES THE SPOT

(United Prsss Association.—Copyright )" WASHINGTON, 28th April.' The former Secretary of State, Mr. Charles E. Hughes, addressing the American Society of International Law, of which he is president, said: "It would, be idle to expect a. more favourable time for the limitation ot armaments than now. Yet, paradoxically, the difficulties mount, so high as to appear well-nigh insuperable. There are several ■contradictory reasons for this, but it appears that, fundamentally, the compelling sentiment does not exist. Krat, there are those who are so intent oa abolishing war that they have no patience with the regulations of war. There are others who are satisfied that nothing eai. prevent war. Then there are those who, in a desire to abolish war, wish to make it as horrible as possible.

"It would seem clear that'you cani not rely on declarations, or resolutions, or papers, to prevent war, unless at the back of all these is the triumph of a spirit of reasonableness among people who. have ceased to think in terms of war. This is a habit of peace, which., will-not be found while causes of strife still exist, while dreams of a successful appeal to force for the vindication of injuries or an extension of power continue to fascinate, and the nations are so intent on preparation, for fighting that they find it impossible to agree on any measures for the reduction or limitation of the burdensome expenditure on armaments."