GERMANY & EQUALITY.

Waikato Times, Volume 112, Issue 18796, 18 November 1932, Page 8

GERMANY & EQUALITY.

BRITAIN FAVOURABLE. SIR JOHN SIMON AT GENEVA. TURNING POINT OF 'CONFERENCE. United Press Assn. —Elec. Tel. Copyright. (Received Nov. 18, 1.20 p.m.) CONDON, Nov. 17. Simultaneously with the speech delivered hv Sir John Simon on disarmament at Geneva, the facts were issued in London In a white paper dealing with Germany's equality claim and containing the identical speech delivered hy Sir John in the House of Commons on November 10. Amplifying life third |dause m which Sir John pointed out that Germany declared she had no intention of re-arming—that she merely desired the principle should he acknowledged that the kinds of arms permitted to other countries be conceded to her, he emphasised the necessity for considering the geographical conditions, especially those of a nation with world-wide overseas responsibilities. Britain, he pointed out, was seeking an agreement to limt the size of capital ships, under which German equality would be conceded. An investigation showed that the 10,000 ton limit would fail of acceptance. The plan required that German construction would not increase the category of the Itonnage, to which her navy Is nesbricted. 'Britain’s idea of 7000 ton cruisers . with sixinch guns approximated the German limit. . , Sir John reiterated Britain’s desire for the abolition of submarines but insisted on Britain’s retention of light tanks, which were an essential compensation for her small enlisted army. The universal prohibition of tanks would Involve the increase of Britain’s man power; consequently, as a measure of disarmament, It would defeat its own ends. ■Britain was prepared to accept the Hoover proposals regarding military effectives in principle as a basis for discussion at Geneva. At the conclusion of his speech, Sir jo-hn raised his hands in a gesture towards Mr Henderson, and said: “I believe we have reached the turning point of the conference." Mr Henderson said that as the powers had shown readiness to concede equality to Germany in principle he hoped soon she would rejoin the conference.