CABLEGRAMS.

Western Star, 16 April 1920, Page 3

CABLEGRAMS.

LONDON, April 14. Iu the House of Contoons, in moving the second reading of a Bill providing for carrying into effect the Austrian and Bulgarian Treaties, Mr Cecil Harmsworth emphasised the difficulties in Austria’s case owing to the break-up of the empire. The principle of self-determination lead not been greatly violated, although the German population, numbering a quarter of a million, iu the Tyrol were included within the new frontier of Italy. This was due to the principle that stategic necessity must be recognised. The situation on the Jugo-Slav frontier was for the moment too delicate for profitable discussion. Regarding reparations, Mr Harmsworth said that since the armistice the Allies had acted with unparalleled magnanimity towards their former enemies. The most important article in the "Treaty was that giving Bulgaria access to the Aegean Sea, which was not yet definitely settled. Mr Asquithdigid no State in Europe had less justification for joining the Central -Empires in the war than Bulgaria. She came in at the most critical moment of the struggle, and. Bulgaria must bear a heavy responsibility for the prolongation of the war. Therefore the Powers generally had not dealt harshly with her. Mr Asquith uttered a warning against the risk of, the Balkanisation of Austria. He criticised the absence of provision for commercial intercourse between the States. It was all important that we should re-create economic duty. The Allies should insist on the disarmament of the new States with a view of safeguarding the peace of Eastern Europe. Mr Bonar Law, in replying to the debate, agreed that it was deplorable the way the small States were arming, but they were independent States, and anv attempt to limit their armaments would not be tolerated. He admitted that unless limitation of armaments was brought about the war would have been fought to a large extent in vain. The Dengue of Nations covenant was embodied m these treaties, and it was the duty of the Government to do their utmost to make the League effective. The second reading was carried! by 188 votes to 34. LONDON, April 14.

A large number of prominent City business men have issued a manifesto appealing for funds for active propaganda: for the League of Nations, on the ground that the League has become an absolute necessity as a business proposition, and is the only alternative to another war which won id utterly ruin the industry and commerce of the whole of Europe. The manifesto declares that, financial support should be regarded Ey all business men as a necessary insurance premium for the continuance ot peace. The campaign of education must be on a national scale, and it must extend at least for a- generation, hence a large fund for it is essential.