N.Z. AND U.S.A.

Grey River Argus, 10 September 1940, Page 6

N.Z. AND U.S.A.

Conciliation Pact WELLINGTON, September 10. “The Conciliation Pact betweenthe U.S.A, and New Zealand, referred to in the cables was, in effect, an extension of the existing AngloUnited States Peace Commission Treaty of 1914,” said Rt. Hon. P. Fraser, in an interview to-night. “This Treaty provided for the setting up of a permanent commission of enquiry to investigate, and report upon, any disputes between the two countries which ordinary diplomatic means might fail to bring to an amicable solution. “Although New Zealand was bound by the provisions of the original treaty, the new international and constitutional status which the Dominions now occupy has rendered it necessary to provide for the Treaty’s extension to the Dominions ol th? British Commonwealth by means of supplementary, treaties, now signed. The Treaty will continue in force for five years and will remain in force thereafter' until one of the parties should give notice of termination.” “I should like to add,” said Mr. Fraser, "that New Zealand’s accession and signature were authorised by the late Rt. Hon. M. J. Savage in July of last year. The subsequent, delay in arranging for simultaneous signatures by our representatives of the British Commonwealth Governments in Washington has, no doubt, been due to more pressing matters.”