FATE OF GERMAN WARSHIPS.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXVI, Issue 17535, 31 March 1919, Page 5

FATE OF GERMAN WARSHIPS.

U.S. STRONG FOR SINKING*

ALL SUBMARINES TO BE

ABOLISHED.

NO DECISION YET.

(Received March 31, 1*.30 a.ttu) NEW YORK, March 29,. Admiral Wemyss, Admiral Benson and Mr. Daniels conferred regarding the disposition- of the German Warships, but no decision was reached. The "New York Times" Paris message reports that the American memorandum regarding the disposition of the German Navy will be presented to the Peace Conference and will probably be adopted. The Americans tacitly favour sinking the German ships. They declare tha^ an increase in naval strength itt 'European waters is unnecessary because the Germans oppose the distribution of the captpred N*ty, pointing out that if the distribution is based on naval losses the largest share would be given Britain^ whfch would necessitate gfeatly increasing the United States' naval outlay to enable the United States to maintain a navy equalling Britain's. Americans contend that it is essential the United States should have a navy equal to Britain's because the League of Nations must be strong enough, if necessary, to restrain its strongest member. The American view is that any reduction in the

United States' naval strength woAlt^l weaken the United States' iafliM&cr in world affairs and limit |M»r ;*l>il-•.•&s# ity to render service to the* League- -v of Nations. It is also asaefted tm»t the submarines of all natibna must be destroyed. The tnettbrandttn ': adds: "High British officer* have justified Germany's U ooat WfcrtlTl - 3 on the grounds of military neefcs- » sity." ■ ' . . . •. •■■-/■,•§