THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS.

Taranaki Daily News, 17 September 1924, Page 8

THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS.

SLAVERY PROBLEM. INQUIRY PROPOSED. By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. Geneva. Sept. 15. The committee of the League of Nations Assembly discussed, the question oi slavery. Mr. Charles Roden Buxton, M.P., declared that the British Government would not suggest any limit to the scope of the proposed inquiry concerning slavery, but could not be bound in advance to accept the conclusions reached, although it would examine them sympathetically. Mr. Hofmeyer described the position in South Africa and said the situation among the natives amounted to nothing more than domestic unemployment. Some chiefs had a number of their people engaged in that capacity. Mr. Hofmeyer believed that good results would be obtained if a commission of inquiry were established with sympathetic contact and co-operation between the countries concerned. The committee finally approved the terms of reference of the proposed inquiry. OTHER MATTERS DISCUSSED. FORTY MAORIS ARRIVE. London, Sept. 15. The Geneva correspondent of The Times states that it is believed that the International Labour Bureau will accept the ta.sk of devising a plan for absorbing the Armenian refugees and will specially consider Australia’s position. as defined by Mrs. Allan. This is a further illustration of the advantage of Australia’s direct representation on the commissions. Similarly, Sir Joseph Cook’s presence on the Mandates Commission, as well as on the sub-committee dealing with slavery means the calling of attention to Australia’s true position, the remoteness of portions of New Guinea, and the, difficulties which are inevitable during a transition period. These were factors which his colleagues recognised must be considered.

The arrival of the Turkish delegation has added new interest. It is generally accepted that Angera desires to settle the Mosul dispute. Mr. Morganthau. former United States Ambassador to Turkey, who, since the war has been a critic of Turkish conduct, is now engaged on behalf of the League of Nations inquiring into the condition of the million and a-half repatriated Greeks expelled from Smyrna. Mr. Morganthau wants tlu support of the League and the Rank of England for a loan of ten millions for the purpose. He says the world will follow the bank’s opinion. This acceptance of Britain’s authority or. finance is general throughout the League.

Forty Wanganui Maoris are visiting Geneva, ostensibly on a Divine healing mission. Six. wearing blankets over their shoulders, appeared at the conference this morning, but. disappointed that there was no plenary session, discarded their blankets and rejoined their countrymen, who were wandering in the streets. It is suspected in informed quarters that the Maoris will not neglect the opportunity to revive the confiscated land controversy.