UNRESERVED SUPPORT.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LV, Issue 247, 16 September 1935, Page 7

UNRESERVED SUPPORT.

NEW ZEALAND’S PART. ADHERENCE TO COVENANT. GENEVA, Sept. 14. Sir James Parr, New Zealand High Commissioner in London, speaking in the League Assembly said : “Though furthest from the headquarters of the League, New Zealand yields to none in her support for the Covenant and collective security. She also values as a pledge of safety the Kellogg Pact. “To-day is tiie League’s great testing time. Now is its vital hour. If the League is at present inactive it must end its influence and authority.

“Perhaps we who are most remote from Europe are inclined to subject international organisations to practical test's. We expect results, but I am concerned lest disappointment of the world’s expectations on this crucial occasion may have far-reaching and lasting evil consequences. “New Zealand is not directlv interested in the Abyssinian dispute, although any people in which the spirit of sportsmanship is present must feel, when the strength of the parties to the dispute is so disproportionate, that there is call for moderation bv the more powerful. Our material interests are not'at stake, but we are tremendously concerned as to the sanctity of agreements. If solemn pacts and covenants are broken up with impunity, none, least of all small nations, is safe for a moment. Indeed, small nations loso most if the principle of collective security is impaired.” Sir Janies Parr said : “Sir Samuel Hoare’s declaration was explicit and admirable in all respects. New Zealand unreservedly supports its policy and accepts its implications, always recognising that under tlie Covenant responsibility lies not with one but all of us. The League has failed greatly on other occasions. It cannot affoid to fa 1 again.”