EUROPE’S TROUBLES

Hawera Star, Volume XLVI, 7 May 1927, Page 5

EUROPE’S TROUBLES

ECONOMIC SITUATION.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED.

BRITAIN’S SUPPORT ASSURED,

BY CABLE—PRESS ASSOCIATION—COPYRIGHT. GENEVA, May 5.

Dr. Von Siencss (Germany) and Frau Freundlieh (Austria), at the Economic Conference, urged the amelioration of Europe’s economic situation on the basis of international co-operation. (Netherlands) advocated economic co-operation between the countries of Central Europe. > Mr Shizachi (Japan) suggested the removal or reduction of customs barriers, the equitable distribution of foodstuffs and raw materials, the abolition of discrimination against shipping, the opening of coastwise trade to the world’s commerce, and the stabilisation of exchanges. The Russian delegation protested against the police exaggerating the need for protective measures, and appealed to Sir Eric Drummond to secure their removal.

Sir Max Muspratt emphasised Britain’s share in the world’s development, especially the mercantile marine serving the world, and the development of loans resulting in new resources, foodstuffs and raw materials, especially those of a tropical nature, being opened up to the world on the same terms as to Britain, enabling a higher standard of living to be enjoyed in Europe. Britain fully recognised other nations’ similar services to civilisation, but the overseas trade meant more to Britain than to the others.

Referring to the present conditions in Britain, he pointed out that there was greater production, in spite of the shorter hours, and more pleasure among the workers, but there were still many unemployed. Britain was ready to adapt herself if the depression was due to fundamental changes, but if it was artificial they must adopt a policy for the reinstatement of former conditions. Britain’s increased exports ,to the Dominions were not obtained at tbe expense of the world, as her proportion of the Dominions’ total exports was reduced. He added that Britain seeks a more prosperous world economically and a more peaceful world. The conference could count on British support to every sound suggestion having these objects in view.

SOVIET DELEGATION INDIGNANT.

SWISS POLICE CONDITIONS. MOSCOW, May 5. The Mass Agency states that the Soviet Geneva delegates report that the police- conditions deprive them, of elementary freedom and the possibility ol working. Indignation is expressed in Government circles, which consider the unprecedented chicaneries humi fating and that the restrictions are proof oi the insincerity of the Leagues’ invitation, indicating the creation of conditions preventing the delegation from joining in the Work. The Soviet has therefore instructed M. Oissinsky, leader of the delegation, to demand: (1) That the League® agree to reasonable methods of protection and abolition of the humiliating police measures. restricting the liberty of the delegates; (2) an assurance of equality of conditions with other delegations ; (3) equal participation in the debates. '

If these conditions are not agreed to the delegation will immediately depart. The Soviet also proposes to reconsider participation .in the League’s conferences, especially those in Switzerland.