AMERICA AND LEAGUE OF NATIONS

Manawatu Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 3445, 6 September 1926, Page 7

AMERICA AND LEAGUE OF NATIONS

Reservations Confer Unusual Privileges SIR FRANCIS BELL SPEAKS PLAINLY [By Electric Cable —Copyright.] (Aust. and N.Z. Cable (Received Sunday, 7 p.m.) GENEVA, Sept. 3. Speaking at the second day's debate on the United States reservations regarding joining the World Court, Sir Francis Bell dealt clearly and concisely with America’s fifth reservation, to the effect that the Court shall not, without the consent of the United States, entertain any request for advisory opinion, touching any dispute or question in which the United States has, or claims to have, Interest. Sir Francis Beil said: "The question is whether the terms of the reservation grant America exceptional privileges.” After dispassionately reviewing the argument Sir Francis Bell concluded: "Undoubtedly resolution number five docs confer superior and exceptional privileges, not possessed by members of the League, whether they are on the Council or not. The power of veto, and the right to exorcise it, are two different things. Should any member of the Council use the veto as the United States could do if so desired, it would wreck the League.” Herr Under suggested an unique compromise, that the reservations should be accepted with a reservation that should the American interpretation at any time conflict with the League Council’s interpretation, Washington’s connection with the Court should be severed automatically.

SPAIN STILL STANDS ALOOF. (Received Sunday, 7 p.m.) LONDON, Sept. 4. The mystery of Spain’s final pronouncement dominated Geneva yesterday. Scnor Palacios informed journalists that he certainly was not attending more Council meetings, and saw no reason for optimism, but that the next move was up to Madrid. The belief continued prevalent in Geneva last night that Spain would continue her non-committal attitude, neither withdrawing nor participating. Senor Palacios is remaining at Geneva as an observer. The Brazilian delegate continues In the same capacity. A movement is growing in favour of the election of Spain and Brazil for three years, with eligibility for re-election triennally, even though they abstain. MANDATED TERRITORY. (Received Sunday, 11.5 p.m.) GENEVA, Sept. 3. As a result of protests against inquisitions concerning mandated territories, a fresh resolution wall be submitted to the Commission. Sir Francis Bell and Mr Smuts testified that New Zealand and South Africa were faithfully carrying out the mandates.