ALLY STILL

Taranaki Daily News, 14 September 1935, Page 7

ALLY STILL

FRANCE SPEAKS FAITH IN COVENANT FATEFUL DECLARATION OBLIGATION ACCEPTED CONTRIBUTION TO PEACE By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright Rec. 1.5 a.m. Geneva, Sept. 13. M. Laval in a ten-minute speech in the tensest atmosphere at the League Assembly to-day revealed France’s view of the Abyssinian crisis, which the world lias been awaiting. “Everybody has to take the responsibility in the present grave situation,” he said. “On behalf of France I declare our faith in the Covenant of the League. We cannot fail in our obligations. We bring a contribution that is enthusiastic and considered. We have confidence that the people will realise their hope of peace. “There have been moments of deception but we shall carry on. From the protocol of 1924 to the Disarmament Conference of 1932, the doctrine of coUective security has been France’s doctrine. It will remain so. How can we let it die? All reason and justice would be against it.”

M. Laval said that all the agreements France had with her Allies and friends at Locarno and Rome were in accord. The Franco-Soviet agreement and treaties with the Little Entente were based on Geneva, and any damage to Geneva would damage her security.

“Sir Samuel Hoare showed the British determination to stand by the League,” said M. Laval. “No Power regards this more warmly than. France. None better knows its value. Sir Samuel Hoare’s speech marks an historic date in the League’s'annals. ‘ “We rejoiced at the close collaboration with the British in the defence of peace and the safeguarding of Europe. I belong to a country which hates war. Despite its high military qualities it is animated by a firm will for peace for all by the collaboration of all. “We signed an agreement at Rome with Signor Mussolini. That definitely set aside all that might have divided us. We are now faced with the present dispute. Again at Stresa with Britain we met Italy in a sane desire to serve the cause of peace.

“We are ready to persevere in that collaboration in an atmosphere of solidarity with the realisation that not only international but European peace is at stake.

"I am determined on the supreme effort the Council is now making to find a solution and to fulfil France’s duty as a member of the League and a friend of Italy. Everything will be done to satisfy the legitimate requirements of Italy which can be done having regard to the rights of the League members. No disaccord exists between Britain and France in search for a peaceful settlement. We succeeded in the Saar, also in the Yugoslavian dispute, and we will try to achieve the same success now.

“Our obligations are in the Covenant, and France will not withdraw from them, but will make the League’s moral authority stronger.” M. Laval left the rostrum amid applause. Sir Samuel Hoare warmly shook his hand.