PROBLEMS FOR THE ALLIES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LIVIII, Issue 17684, 20 January 1921, Page 7

PROBLEMS FOR THE ALLIES.

—: ■«- GERMANY AND TURKEY. NEW PARIS CONFERENCE. ATTITUDE TOWARD GREECE. By Telegraph—Preßa, Association—Copyright. A. and N.Z. LONDON, Jan. 18. The conference of Allied Prime Ministers, which is to meet in Paris on January 24, will confine itself to the questions of the disarmament of Germany and reDarations, and the Turkish treaty, which France is anxious to discuss, and i possibly the danger of the collapse of Austria. British opinion is that the matter of disarmament is not likely to need long consideration before an agreement is reached. It is not thought possible that the question of reparations can be finally settled, and probably the matter 1 will not go beyond a general exchange of views. France and Britain have to decide how far the question is capable of settlement at present, but Britain believes that nothing definite can be attained until further information from Germany is available. The question is not only what the Allies want, but what they can get. With reference to the Treaty of Sevres, it must be remembered that the position of Turkey is somewhat obscure. The whereabouts of Izzet Pasha and the mission which was sent from Constantinople to arrange matters with Mustapha. Kemal are unknown. Izzet Pasha was expected to leave Angora on the conclusion of his mission at the end of December, but at present it is thought he is etill with MustaDba Kemal in Asia Minor. The military situation in Asia Minor is regarded as absolutely secure. The j Greeks are holding their position, and ! extending their front at several points. , The question presents itself whether Eang I Constantine can carry on without the support of the Allies. If he can there will be no question of forcing the Greeks to evacuate Smyrna, but there are doubts whether the financial resources of Greece are sufficient to enable her single-handed to hold her position. Present reports, however, are reassuring. Britain's attitude toward Greece will he one of the greatest reserve, and a desire for a fuller observation of the developments before she sees any reason to alter the position she always held about a settlement of the matter.