THE RUHR CRISIS

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIX, Issue 95, 27 August 1923, Page 5

THE RUHR CRISIS

BELGIAN NOTE TO FRANCE.

USELESSNESS OF NOTES.

Press Association—Copyright. Australian and N.Z. Cable Association. Brussels, August 25.

The Belginn Note lias been sent to Paris. It comprises thirty-five pages. It points out that definite information is now forthcoming as to the sums due to the different allies, and it suggests that it be best now! to abandon tho system of Note s and adopt direct conversations between British, French, Belgian and Italian Ministers.

GERMAN OFFICIAL OPINION.

Berlin, August 25

Tlie Chancellor (Herr gtresemann), in a speech, insisted that as long as the French pursue their present policy in the Rhineland and the Ruhr the way will be barred to any practical solution that Germany can accept. He declared that the present Government adheres fully to Herr Cuno's memorandum of June 7, to which, to their regret, no reply has been received from the Allied Powers. He admitted that the' possibilities of Germany's economic forces v?sro potentially good, and he asserted the Allies need only accept the les laid down in the memorandum in order to find, in collaboration with Germany, a way of turning our last remaining source of strength into a real guarantee of Germany's fulfilment of her reparation obligations.

Ho denied that Germany hod delilierately depreciated her currency. The Government was not afraid of the confiscation of property !£f necessary, but he hoped such a drastic step would be unnecessary. He Would not discusa M. Poincare's Note, but if the terms of the Brftfs% Note were carried out it would be possible for the nations to live peaceably.

Germany was ready to make heavy sacrifices, even to pawning some of her industries, in order x to regain her, freedom, but not the Rhineland and the Ruhr. Germany was not desirous of smashing the Entente, and wished to work in harmony with England and^France.

FRENCH PRESS OPINION.

Paris, August 35

Lo Journal says the speech is not aggressive and shows a real desire for a solution of the reparations! problem. Le Matin declares Heir Stresemann leaves the door wide open for conversations with the Allies, and even with France. ITALIAN PRESS OPINION. Rome, August 24. The newspapers generally disapprove of M. Poincare's .reply. The Tribune sees no hope of speedy reconciliation between France and England.

The , Corriero D'ltalia, a Government organ, says that France's intention is to remain in the Ruhr until she is paid, if it means halt a century of occupation. It is sheer hypocrisy for M. Poincare to pietend that France is not seeking annexation.

The Epoca says M. Poincare's selfevident policy is to create an independent Rhineland with the Saar included, which will eventually become a great French indatrial republic.