THE OSLO POWERS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23896, 25 August 1939, Page 9

THE OSLO POWERS

CONVENTION* AT BRUSSELS BROADCAST BY KING LEOPOLD REFERENCES TO THE CRISIS (United Press Association) (By Electric Telegraph—Copyright) BRUSSELS, Aug. 23. King Leopold, broadcasting in the name of all the signatories to the Oslo Convention, said the world was living under such high tension that collaboration between countries seemed impossible. War would bring economic collapse everywhere. Armies were getting ready for a horrible struggle -in which there would be neither victor nor loser, but there would be the loss of the spiritual values acquired during centuries of civilisation. Not a single nation wished to send its children to death. “It is still possible to negotiate. The worst can be avoided, but time presses. The evolution of events will soon render all contact more difficult. The right to live must exist. It must be founded on a moral basis. We solemnly hope that those responsible for the guidance of countries will accept the suggestion to submit their differences and claims to negotiation in a spirit of goodwill. I hope the heads of other States will .join their voices with ours in 'the same desire to assure peace and security to their peoples.” King Leopold, spoke in the most solemn tones in the presence of the Oslo Convention Ministers, who during the day considered a proposal to call a world conference, but it was withdrawn, as several delegates doubted its usefulness. A commimication issued after the meeting agreed with the terms of the statement the King of the Belgians broadcast. The Powers affirmed their readiness to collaborate actively in any international effort at conciliation, and said they would intervene in a conflict only to defend their menaced independence. RUSSIAN HELP FOR POLAND AN ASSURANCE SOUGHT LONDON, Aug. 23. The Exchange’s Paris correspondent says the Government has sent fresh instructions to M. Naggiar to seek from M. Molotov affirmation that in the event of international complications Russia will be ready to conclude an agreement provided Poland accepts unconditional help from Russia. M. Noel has been instructed to secure the necessary assurance from Poland.