Wairarapa Daily Times [Established Over 50 Years.] WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1927. POSITION IN EUROPE.

Wairarapa Daily Times, 21 December 1927, Page 4

Wairarapa Daily Times [Established Over 50 Years.] WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 1927. POSITION IN EUROPE.

The. approach of Christmas seems to have had a mellowing; influence in Europe. At any rate, several nations, between whom some coldness exists, show a disposition to cultivate better relations. Of course, Russia’s disarmament proposals could not be taken seriously. They were a piece of bluff which deceived no one, a transparent device for throwing upon others the odium of refusing to entertain a scheme, however crack brain. Even Lord Robert Cecil, who is an almost fanatical champion of disarmament, admits that it must be a gradual process. But the presence of Russia at Geneva, following upon her attendance at the Economic Conference, is highly significant. It suggests that Russia is tiring of her isolation. Russia is the pariah of Europe, a role which is always invidious, even to a Government which professes such a truculent indifference to foreign opinion as does the Soviet. Germany resented her outlawry and the stigma implied therein scarcely less than the occupation of her territory. She welcomed her admission to the League as proof of her rehabilitation. Russia has stood aloof from the League of her own accord, and there is, as yet, no question of her adhesion. Nevertheless, the fact that she sent delegates to the economic and the disarmament conferences indicates that she no longer wishes to dissociate herself entirely from international discussions. Russia also desires to resume relations with. Britain, and conversations to that end are being held between M. Litvinoff and Sir Austen Chamberlain. Hitherto, the British Government has been non-committal on the subject. But for the rupture last June the Soviet had only itself to thank, and it will have to satisfy the British authorities that it is prepared to mend its ways. Russian propaganda fomented antiBritish agitation in China. It endeavoured to suborn the British ai my and navy. Diplomatic privileges were abused, and concessions obtained by solemn assurances were made a cover for activities subversive to the British Empire, hi the face of grave provocation, Britain behaved with extraordinary fortitude, and only broke with Russia when matters had reached a pass which no Government with any regard for its dignity could tolerate. Britain is unlikely to accede to the Russian request unless the Soviet provides guarantees against these mischievous practices, and can satisfy the British Government that it is capable of carrying them into effect. Whether it can do this is open to doubt. But tlie Russian overtures are evidence of a chastened frame of mind. Russia recognises that,, as far as Britain is concerned, site is “in disgrace,” and is anxious that the ostracism should cease. Also Russia may think that a renewal of relations would indirectly benefit her economic position by making credits more easy to secure.