PIECE OF MORAL SUASION.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16736, 18 May 1922, Page 8

PIECE OF MORAL SUASION.

AMERICAN REPLY TO POWERS. ANXIOUS TO CO-OPERATE. By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright Australian and N.Z. Cable Association. Aleceived May 18, 12.5 p.m.) WASHINGTON, May 17. A White House official said to-day. “ Although on the surface it may seem as if the United States lias entirely refused to co-operate with the European Powers, the truth is that the American Government is not only ready, but also anxious to participate in a conference on Russian affairs. It is understood definitely that President Harding is ready to send a representative to Tho Hague or any where else to discuss the Russan question, and that if the Powers will modify the proposals and remove the features that are objectionable to this country, American co-operation can be assured President Harding feels that the door is open for American help, and wants that to he clearly understood. Both the President and Mr Hughes believe that much can be accomplished if the Russian question is treated as an economic matter. And if the Russians will respect private rights and property, and thus afford a basis for economic dealings with other nations. The American reply is intended as a piece of moral suasion, it being hoped that the Powers will be able to persuade the Russians that the giving of American help will be seriously considered in Washington, just as soon, as an economic basis can be achieved, which will warrant the United States in extending its hand. “ This accounts for the speed with which the American reply was despatched. The Powers at Genoa were expected to uda the American Note ns a medium for further negotiations with the Russians.’