FIXING THE REPARATION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVII, Issue 17460, 3 May 1920, Page 5

FIXING THE REPARATION.

ALLIES' INVITATION. Press Association. LONDON. April 30. In the House of Commonr, Mr. Asquith declared it extremely desirable that the floating charge imposed on Austria and Germany bo replaced by a fixed agreed sum. He was of opinion that the San Romo conference marked considerable progress towards tie reconstruction of Europe, nevertheless he wanted to see the effective establishment of a League of Nations as an authentic organ. A vast number of States, small and great, were already partners to the covenant, and would be augmented by their late enemies.

Mr. Llovd George, replying, said that the Allies'were anxious, in the interests of all, including Germany, to shorten the suspense as re-gaidg indemnity and charges. The Allien agreed that it would be better for Gormany lo know her exact liability, and he invited her definitely to submit proposals for the payment of a lump sum. Germany had not done so. Germany had the remedy in her own hands by stating what she was prepared to pay. He emphasised the fact that there were at present three Powers with the strength, organisation, and will to direct tho affairs of Europe. Until there was something of equal power and organisation to replace them it was idle to wind up the Supreme Council The Council was the beginning of the League of Nations. Ho was an earnest believer in the league; if it failed the only hope was a federation of nations.