NEW GERMAN CONFUSION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LX, Issue 18566, 26 November 1923, Page 8

NEW GERMAN CONFUSION.

The European situation is so full of twists and turns, the intricacies of it defy analysis to such an extent that, revolted by its man contradictions, the average mind refuses to dwell upon it. No section shows these characteristics more pronouncedly than the affairs of Germany. The stories which come from that country, each purporting to give a complete account of its condition, contradict one another with such regularity that most people despair of ever obtaining anything like a correct view. Out of the welter of confusion there has come one positive fact, the Chancellor, Dr. Stresemann, after % defeat in the Reichstag, has resigned. He has been struggling along under difficulties for some time, and now the breaking point has been reached. What consequences will follow, it is impossible to estimate. Without this new shock, the lack of purpose, the poverty of statesmanship and leadership in German public life has long been painfully apparent. It is the obvious product of lack of political consciousness in the people. Whether this turn of events can make the situation any, or much, worse will be demonstrated in the immediate future. The Times, commenting on the event, is definitely and unusually pessimistic. In its view, the breaking-up of the German Reich is inevitable, and the formation of an independent Rhineland, definitely under French influence, is certain. If that be a correct forecast, it is evident that events of great historic moment are in train. Whatever the outcome there is a present and imminent possibility of the German travail growing worse as the direct consequence of this new confusion which has befallen that o-ooracted country.