FIRST DAY OF THE LEAGUE MEETING.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18406, 7 March 1928, Page 14

FIRST DAY OF THE LEAGUE MEETING.

ONLY PRELIMINARY MATTERS DISCUSSED. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. GENEVA, March 6. The first day of the League of Nations Council’s meeting was largely devoted to preliminary conference discussions. The most definite event was the Arbitration and Security Committee producing the draft of a model treaty on judicial settlement by arbitration and conciliation. It consists of thirtyeight articles. Lord Cushendun, in a lengthy explanation, intimated that Britain could not accept the optional clause regarding submitting disputes in the International Court of Justice France is thus far the only Great Power to sign the optional clause. There has been considerable comment in League circles on the United States note to France, the general impression being that America’s proposals need elucidation. When examined closely they do not reveal material difference from the League's Covenant. It is freely stated that the United States could work more effectively for world peace by joining the League. Prominent members of the Council also express the opinion that European peace would be on a safer basis if Signor Mussolini could be induced to take a personal part in the work of the League Council. Mopes that the first general disarmament conference would be held in 1928 have been shattered, as it has been announced that all resolutions adopted by the Security Commission will be subject to approval by the League Assembly. As the Assembly only meets in September a disarmament conference is impossible before 1929. A resolution was passed asking information concerning the national status of the inhabitants of the mandated territories from the mandatories. It was announced that questions regarding Danzig had been withdrawn from the agenda because the parties interested were negotiating direct.— Aust. and N.Z. Press Assn.