FRENCH ELECTIONS

New Zealand Times, Volume LI, Issue 11786, 24 March 1924, Page 7

FRENCH ELECTIONS

POINCARE GAINS GROUND BOTH PARTIES BASE THEIR APPEAL ON PATRIOTISM. ELECTION DATE FIXED* By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Published in “The Times.” LONDON, March 21. The Paris correspondent of “The Times” states that the French general elections have been fixed for May 11th. The supporters of the Government and its opponents alike are basing their appeal to the country on patriotism. The Bloc National, headed by M. Poincare, claims to be the guardian of Republican principles and institutions. The Bloc des Gauches (Parties of the Left), consisting of Radicals and Socialists, resents this assumption of exclusive devotion to the Republic, and declares itself more republican than tho Republicans. It is becoming clear, however, that M. Poincare’s prospects are greatly improved. Public opinion already seems disposed to forget hia neglect of home affairs,, with which he was so often reproached, and to rally round the Premier who brought the country safely through a grave financial crisis. If this tendency develops, the ground will he cut under the feet of his opponents, who, still reluctant to attack the Government’s foreign policy, based their hopes of victory on being able to place domestic affairs in the forefront ei the electoral struggle. THE FRANGJOMINANT EXCHANGE BATE IMPROVES. STERLING UNSTEADY. Australian and N.Z. Cable Association.. {Received March. 23, 11.6 p.m.) NEW YORK, March 22. The franc, selling strongly, reached 5 3-10 oents, representing within 18 hours a gain of 2-10 cents. Sterling, however, was unsteady, and declined 2 cents, reaching 4.28 7-8 dollars to £l. The Continental exchanges remained relatively stationary, but the Russian chewonetz reached 5.20 cents, which is 6 cents above par. Observers believe the franc’s apeiendancy is certain for some months, but that its ultimate fate depends on France’s fiscal reform measures.