OPINION IN GERMANY.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LII, Issue 15900, 24 April 1915, Page 8

OPINION IN GERMANY.

DESIRE FOR PEACE. HINTS FOR THE ALLIES. (Roceivod April 23. 1110 v.ra,) London, April 23. A message from The Hague says that the German Socialists are making earnest efforts to obtain a basis for the cessation of the war- Dr. Breimscheldt, one of the Socialistic leaders, is visiting Holland and consulting Socialists, there with a view to getting into touch with British and French Socialists, and getting them to bring pressure to bear in the same direction.

German Socialists arc unanimously in favour of peace, without the annexation of territory. At a private meeting of the party in Germany, it is reported, a discussion in favour of peace took place and the general view was that Alsace and Lorraine should not belong to France or Germany, but should be autonomous. The argument was used that if France possessed the districts, a rankling desire for vengeance wa»*cl possess a largo part of the population.)

It is also reported that East Prussian landowners arc trying to treat for peace with Russia, owing to their fear that their properties arc suffering.

The German Socialists believe that a durable peace is probable upon an arrangement of terms by Germany with France and Britain for the evacuation of Belgium. With reference to the Dardanelles it is not believed to be feasible to internationalise or neutralise the straits until there is unity among the states of Europe. It is not considered possible to starve Germany, but the belief is expressed that the war will not continuo much longer owing to the disastrous effect on economic conditions in the countries engaged.