THE RUSSIAN FAMINE.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXVI, Issue 18259, 18 August 1921, Page 5

THE RUSSIAN FAMINE.

BRITISH PRIME MINISTER’S VIEWS. Received August 17, 5.5 p.m. LONDON, August 16. Referring to the Russian famine, Mr. Lloyd George said it was difficult to get accurate information. The news pointed to the most appalling catastrophe which had visited the world for centuries. They must, however, have a complete guarantee that relief would reach the sufferers. REPORTS CONFIRMED. Received August 17, 9.10 p.m. LONDON, August 16. Replying to questions in the House of Commons, Mr. Harmsworth said the British official agent in Moscow had just reported confirming the extent and gravity of the Russian famine. There were 35 million people affected, and the number was constantly increasing. Large masses are trekking to Poland, Turkestan and Siberia in an attempt to escape from starvation. Poland could not accept the refugees, and those going in otter directions are faced with the difficulty of crossing foodless and shelterless steppes. Nearly one third of the trekkers consisted of foodless children in a most pitiable condition. STARVING CHILDREN’S FATE. Received August 17, 9.10 p.m. BERLIN, August 16. Parents in Samara, on the Volga, 650 miles eastward of Moscow, are leaving their children on the doorsteps of Soviet officials and institutions. A children’s colony has been established, to which waifs and strays are sent, but the mortality therein is appalling. It amounts to this: they are gathered up from the streets in order that they won’t die before the people’s eyes.