THE PEACE TREATY.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 16638, 12 January 1920, Page 3

THE PEACE TREATY.

SIGNED BY GERMANY. RATIFICATIONS LODGED. By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. PARIS, Jan. 10. Germany has signed the Peace Treaty, and ratifications were deposited at four o’clock this afternoon. 'Die Supreme Council has decided that the League of Nations will begin as from January 16. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn. A CONCILIATORY NOTE. FROM M. CLEMEN CEAU TO GERMANY. (Received. Jan. 12, 9.5 a.m.) LONDON, Jan. 10. A letter from M. Clemenceau was handed to Herr von Lersner after the exchange of ratification records containing an assurance relative to the safeguarding of economic interests vital to Germany’. In connection with the Scapa Flow reparations, the letter states that Allied associated experts think the information upon which they founded their demands for ipO.OOO tons of dock material are erroneous as regards 80,000 tons floating in docks at Hamburg. If it was found to be so they would reduce their demands to 300,000 tons, or even to a minimum of 275,000 if fully convinced of the necessity for a reduction. The Scapa Flow sinkings are not considered to constitute a war crime for which individuals should be designated for punishment. In accordance with the Peace Treaty, Germany must immediately hand over 192,000 tons, the time limit given for the balance not exceeding 80 months. —Aus.-N.Z. Cable Assn, and Reuter. KING GEORGE’S PIOUS WISH. PEACE FOR EVER. (Received Jan. 12, 12.45 p.m.) LONDON, Jan. 11. Replying to a loyal message from the citizens of London on occasion of the exchange of ratifications, tlie King telegraphed to the Lord Mayor: “With nil my heart I reciprocate their hopes and reverently pray that it please God that this day may bo the dawn of a new era in which the people of the British Empire may forever live in peace with itself and all men.”