BRITAIN AND FRANCE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIV, Issue 930, 31 January 1924, Page 5

BRITAIN AND FRANCE.

SEVERAL DIFFERENCES. ATTEMPT AT SETTLEMENT. - LONDON, Jan. 29. # The political observer of the Da;lj Telegraph reveals that Mr MacDonald, as soon as he was installed at the Foreign Office, addressed to M. Poincare a remarkably straightforward letter, wherein lie did not blink AngloFrench differences, but offered to meet M. Poincare 1 lialf-way in an attempt to reach a final, complete and clear settlement, expressing his readiness to discuss all outstanding questions. The Daily Telegraph adds that M. Poincare’s reply was awaited with some anxiety because it was not the first time that a British Prime Minister had stretched out his hand for a friendly grasp. Fortunately M. Poincare replied in the same kindly tone as Mr MacDonald. Unlike the rank and file of the Labour Party, Mr Maconald has a good understanding of France’s difficulties. He realises that Britain’s and the United States’ withdrawal from the pact of security has caused many of the present international troubles. He is opposed to any attempt to intimidate or isolate France, believing in persuasion instead of isolation. Mr MacDonald hopes to gain French participation in a general movement towards disarmament. The Daily Telegraph’s Paris correspondent says there is every likelihood that the correspondence between Mr MacDonald and M. Poincare will b# published.—A. and N.Z. cable.

TROOPS’ IN PALATINATE.

FRENCH SUGGESTION. Received January 31, 11.45 a.m. PARIS, Jan. 30. The French Government lias proposer to Britain questions relating to the maintenance of public order and security of the occupation troops in the Palatinate, which will be submitted to the Ambassadors’ Conference. The French Government also favours the reinstatement of the German officials whom the separatists expelled. Belgium has acquiesced in this.—A. and N.Z* cable.