Such a development implies the break-down of ordered government and the suspension of authority. Carry the matter to its logical sequence, and the stability of our democratic institutions is undermined and chaos supervenes.
How settlement was reached
The railway strike was settled late on Saturday night, when Mr Massey had an interview with the locomotive men. The executive of the association agreed to waive their claim for retrospective payment of increases and to submit to the reference of the dispute to a tribunal. Everything is in train for a resumption of the various services to-morrow.
In commenting on the settlement obtained Mr Massey made the following brief statement: ‘‘In each case the principle of conciliation is being observed. For the points in dispute as between the E.F.O.A. and the Government, a special Conciliation Committee is being set up, and I hope to have it appointed at or before the end of the week, and to get it to work as soon as possible thereafter.’’
Roslyn Girl Scouts
The two first principles of the Girl Scouts’ code, self-help and the cheering of others, were both happily given effect to by the Roslyn Troop in the Roslyn Theatre on Saturday night, when the members presented an entertainment with the object of raising funds for the troop’s rather depleted exchequer. The best possible sort of encouragement was given the girls by the large audience which came to see and remained to applaud their efforts. Mr F. G. Cumming, as the Scouts’ Provincial Commissioner, occupied the chair.
Peace problems
In the House of Commons, following Mr Lloyd George, Mr Asquith declared that it was highly desirable that the floating charge imposed on Austro-Germany be replaced by a fixed agreed sum. He was of opinion that the San Remo Conference marked a considerable step towards reconstructing Europe; nevertheless, he wanted to see an effective establishment of the League of Nations as an authentic organisation. A vast number of states, small and great, were already partners to the Covenant, and it would be augmented by their late enemies. Mr Lloyd George, replying, said that the Allies were anxious, in the interest of all (including Germany), to shorten the suspense as regards indemnities and charges.
The Allies had agreed that it would be better for Germany to know her exact liability, and they had invited her to submit a definite proposal for the payment of a lump sum. Germany had not done so.
The Prime Minister emphasised the fact that there were at present three Powers with the strength, organisation and will to direct the affairs of Europe. Until there was something of equal power and organisation to replace them, it was idle to wind up the Supreme Council, which was the beginning of the League of Nations. He was an earnest believer in the League. If it failed, the only hope of Europe was in a Federation of Nations.
— ODT, 3.5.20.
