THE WASHINGTON CONFERENCE

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16814, 17 August 1922, Page 4

THE WASHINGTON CONFERENCE

SIR JOHN SALMON’S REPORT (Per Purs* Association.) WELLINGTON, August 16. Sir J. SaJmond’s report on the Washington Conference was presented to Parliament to-day. It is mostly devoted to setting out the decisions arrived at. which have already been fully leportedWith regard to the naval treaty it* y>rimary importance or significance, he says, is to be found in its financial aspect. it relates to times of peace and to expenditure in preparation for time of war. It is not an agreement to preserve peace, nor is it intended for that end. The treatv in no way limits the weapons with which states may fight and defend themselves. It merely limits the weapons whim they may prepare for that purpose in times of peace. Still loss may the treaty be nroperlv regarded as a step towards total naval disarmament. No such impracticable idealism inspired the Washington Conference. No legislation is required in New Zealand to give effect to the Washington treaties or The only legislative action required is that of the Imperial Parliament. The treaties have to be ratified by his Majesty, and Sir John Salmond thinks ail New Zealand need do is to formally express approval of such ratification. Sir John Salmond also remarks that the presence of representatives of the Dominions has suggested in certain quarters that they have in some wav acquired a new international status, hut there was no foundation for it a*. Washington. The* representatives were there to be consulted and heard on matters affecting them, hut not in their own right as quasi independent states. Earl Balfour answered for the British Empire as n whole. The fullest opportunity was given Dominion delegates to exercise the right of evidence and consultation and all internal dis cushions of the British delegation pro reeded with the utmost harmony and with Ungrudging and courteous recognition of the right of the dominions to participate. No question ever arose on which it was not possible to secure ultimate unanimity within, the British delegation.