GRAVE SITUATION

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16575, 7 November 1921, Page 8

GRAVE SITUATION

AT IRISH CONFERENCE. ALL CARDS ON TABLE. By Telegraph—Press Association— Copyright. "United Service (Received November 7. 12.20 p.m.) 'LONDON* November 6. There seems to be no doubt that the negotiations have arrived at the most critical state reached since the inception of the Conference, and a touch of a feather may irrevocably decide peace or war. The cards are on the table between the Government and Sinn Fein. Ulster mu3t now join the party and disclose her hand. The latest development can only be conjectured. The ultra-TTnionists make no bones, about saying that the situation at one stroke may become even graver and more critical, and that Sir .Tames Craig has convinced the Prime Miniate* that the oath to peace bristles with difficulties well nigh insurmountable. By contrast the Ministerially well informed “Sunday Times” is almost bright and cheerful. It says: “There is nothing more favourable to peace than the draft agreement which has Ireen. Teached at the Conference contemplating immediate closer unity and ultimately an Irish Parliament with two Provincial Councils ns well as boundary alterations. If Ulster con sents, the settlement is made. The latter phrase, however, dims the brilliance of hope. Everything hinges on the attitude of the North.” The paper adds*. “ If Ulster refuses, the result will not he coercion of Ulster nor coercion of the South, at any rate not by tho Ministry headed by Mr” Lloyd George. In the event of a break a considerable section of the Conservatives will join forces with the ultraUnion ista.”