MOMENTOUS STEP

New Zealand Times, Volume LI, Issue 11736, 25 January 1924, Page 7

MOMENTOUS STEP

RECOGNITION FOR RUB3IA MACDONALD MOVES. Australian and N.Z. Cable Association (Received January 24, 7.5 p.m.) LONDON, January 23. The “Daily Express” lobby correspondent says that Mr Macdonald's colleagues warmly approved his plans for the saving of the time of the members of the Cabinet by means of special committees, so that the full Cabinet can devote itself to the consideration of general principles and policy. Mr Macdonald is taking immediate steps to secure the recognition of Russia and to reopen the question of German reparations and policy with the French Government. Editorially, the “Daily Express” says that the change will give vigour to the League of Nations. Lord Parmoor will co-operate with Mr Ma<> donald in such matters as the railway situation, the Cologne area blockade, and the Separatist movement in the Rhineland. The “Daily Express” says that most of the members of the Cabinet reappointed the private secretaries of the outgoing Conservatives. Even Mr Baldwin’s private secretaries will act for the time being, and the Cabinet secretariat goes on. Mr John Wheatley has accepted the Ministry of Health on the understanding that his main business is to accelerate building schemes. •He will pay attention to the matter of building rings with which Cabinet intends to take strong measures. Later, Cabinet intends to inquire into the operations of trusts all over the country. A bill to amend unemployment insurance will be introduced without delay.