GERMANY.

Otago Witness, Issue 3555, 2 May 1922, Page 22

GERMANY.

THE RUHR BASIN. PARIS, April 26. The possibility of the French occupation of the Ruhr basin is indicated in a semiofficial statement dealing with measures involving the separate action which France might take in the event of Germany’s failure to carry out her obligations. It says that an agreement with the Allies in this matter, though desirable and keenly desired by the French Government, is not indispensable if the Reparations Commission, having given notice of Germany’s default, should indicate that the moment to take action had arrived. The statement points out that Germany's period of grace expires on May 31, after which, if the Reparations Commission is not satisfied, it wjll be able to propose to the French Government measures appropriate in the circumstances. GERMANS ATTACK POLES. LONDON, April 27. Two companies of German troops bombed and machine-gunned a Polish detachment at Ratibor. There were many casualties. A serious development and reprisals are feared. LOAN FROM AMERICA. NEW Y'ORK, April 25. It is announced that Mr Pierpont Morgan intends to sail for Europe in May, following acceptance of the Reparation. Commission’s invitation to confer with European financiers on the subject of a German loan. Mr Morgan said that he would give his services in an advisory capacity, but he would not become officially connected with the Reparations Committee. He said the question was what security Germany could offer, and the circumstances under which the United States would join in the floatation of a loan. WASHINGTON, April 26. Governor Strong, of the Federal Reserve Bank, will go to London to confer with the Finance Committee of the Reparations Committee concerning a loan to Germany. He will have President Harding’s backing, although President Harding considers Governor Strong's acceptance of the invitation a personal matter which is in no way binding on tlie Administration.