GEN. RUSSELL RETURNS

Hokitika Guardian, 21 December 1925, Page 3

GEN. RUSSELL RETURNS

great questions discussed

[nv TELEGRAPH—PER PP.ESS ASSOCIATION.] # AUCKLAND. .Dec. 21. Major-General Sir Andrew Itussell, who with Lady Russell, returned by the Aorangi from an eighteen months’ trip abroad, said the Dawes l’lan had achieved its two prime objects; firstly, the removal of reparations from the political arena, and secondly, the establishment of sound economic conditions in Germany. “Owing to the downward rush of the paper mark,’’ said Sir Andrew, ‘‘Germany appeared on the brink of an economic and social upheaval. The Dawes scheme saved her, and only time I would show how far the scheme w- uld

affect its secondary object; namely, the actual payment of Germany’s war debt

. to the Allies.” Continuing, Sir Andrew said :—“The expense of involving the "Empire in European affairs whether willingly or otherwise, and rendering us liable to assist the aggrieved party with armed force, was a very real step on the road to peace. But, far more important to the future welfare of Europe, was the fact that with its signing. Germany was again admitted as a member of the European family on terms of equality and her destiny linked with that of European civlisation.” “A subject of importance to Australia and New Zealand.” said Sir Andrew, “was the dispute with the Turkish Republic because the nation, which controlled Mesopotamia controlled iho land and air rentes to these outposts of the British Empire. It was important these routes should run through countries with secure and stable Governments. A surrender to the claims of the; Turkish Republic, which had refused to accept the ruling cf the League of Nations, would lve a. severe blow at the prestige of noth the League of Nations and the British Empire.